Dominus Estate Bordeaux 2016 is a wine of extraordinary depth and complexity. On the nose, it opens with captivating aromas of dark, ripe berries intertwined with hints of graphite and cedar. The palate is a revelation of rich, velvety textures, where layers of blackcurrant, plum, and dark chocolate meld seamlessly. Each sip is a journey through time and terroir, with nuances of dried herbs and a touch of eucalyptus adding an intriguing herbal dimension.
The tannins are impeccably integrated, providing structure and a solid foundation to the wine's opulent fruit. The finish is incredibly long, leaving an impression of finesse and grace. This Bordeaux blend is a true masterpiece, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of Dominus Estate. It promises a cellar-worthy future, with the potential to evolve and reveal even greater intricacies over the years.
Critic Ratings
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Review - Rated 100:
A blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot and 8% Cabernet Franc aged in 40% new oak, the 2016 Proprietary Red Wine is deep purple-black in color and quite reticent at this youthful stage to begin, offering up subtle notions of potpourri, Indian spices, cigar box and iron ore over a core of crushed blackberries and black cherries with intermittent wafts of black and red currants, new leather and smoked meats. The palate is medium to full-bodied with a densely packed mid-palate and oodles of freshness framed by very ripe, finely grained tannins and laced with compelling earthy accents. It offers incredible vibrancy with tons of black and red fruit sparkle in the mid-palate leading to a provocative mineral element on the very long finish. If I could give more than 100 for this one, I would.
Jeb Dunnuck Review - Rated 98:
Another possible legend in the making is the 2016 Dominus, a classic blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot and the rest Cabernet Franc brought up in 40% new French oak. Pure, pristine notes of charcoal, cold fireplace, smoke tobacco, and both blue and black fruits all flow to a full-bodied 2016 that has incredible elegance and finesse, yet also depth and density. It’s more backward and reserved than the 2015 and needs 4-5 years of cellaring. It will unquestionably live for 25-30 years.
James Suckling Review - Rated 98:
The opulence of fresh flowers and dark fruit is so impressive. There’s so much going on, from flowers to currants. The palate is full and powerful, but what impresses most are the ripe tannins and the amazing poise at the finish. Tightens down at the end. A blend of 84 per cent cabernet sauvignon, eight per cent petit verdot and eight per cent cabernet franc. Drink in 2021.
Wine Spectator Review - Rated 95:
This marries a range of old-school savory, tobacco, chestnut and bay leaf notes with a dense and muscular core of dark currant and blackberry fruit, all backed by a loam-swaddled finish. Long and dense, but defined, with the fruit steadily emerging to win out in the end. Patience is required. Best from 2023 through 2040.
