Dominus 1998

Dominus, produced by the Dominus Estate Corporation, is made solely from grapes grown on the historic Napanook Vineyard in Yountville, California.

1998 was an “el Niño” vintage, resulting in a cool climate throughout the Napa Valley. Thanks to their French experience, Christian Moueix and his team knew immediately how to react: work even harder in the vineyard. By rigorously crop thinning, when the warmer weather of September arrived, the vines could concentrate the flavors in the few clusters remaining and allow the fruit to ripe.

1998 was a viticulturist’s year; very challenging in all aspects. The very heavy rainfall from November 1997 through May 1998, combined with a rather cool spring, caused an extremely long blooming period and a very late harvest. Persistent and severe crop thinning allowed the remaining grapes to reach their full maturity during the unexpectedly warm month of September.

Beginning date of harvest: 09/20/1998

Ending date of harvest: 10/22/1998

Average days of Cuvaison: 18 days

Blend:
73% Cabernet Sauvignon
15% Cabernet Franc
6% Merlot
6% Petit Verdot

Barrel regime: 18 months in French oak barrels — hand racked every three months

Percentage of new oak: 40%