Dominus 2023 is the youngest expression of this Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant Bordeaux-style blend from Napa Valley, made by the house Christian Moueix of Pomerol built around genuine Bordeaux winemaking philosophy. Where the older vintages in this range show settled, mature character, this one is still entirely primary — coiled rather than open.

Dark cassis, black cherry and violets dominate the nose, fresh and vivid, with firm structure evident even at this early stage. The palate is dense and powerful, tannin and fruit still tightly wound together rather than separated out, with real concentration evident even now.

Tannins are substantial and grainy, the hallmark of a wine built for the cellar, closing on a long, youthful finish with real grip and length.

Right now it wants food that can meet its structure — a char-grilled steak or braised short rib rather than anything delicate.

This is a wine for patience: it will stay tightly wound for several years yet, and is built to reward a decade or more in the cellar before showing its full potential.