DOMINUS 2020

Description

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon: 95%, Cabernet Franc: 5%

The vintage was characterized by a dry winter and spring, with a total of 17” of rain from July 2019 to
June 2020 (the historical average: 31”).
With warm temperatures in the spring and our well-drained soils, the vines developed balanced shoot
growth. Summer temperatures were consistently warm, allowing for a rapid and homogenous ripening.
Fastidious selection by hand as well as optical sorting were critical in eliminating any berries impacted
by the heat.

The end result was a very small crop of good quality

Because of its depth, tannin structure, and concentration, the wine pairs best with dishes that have richness, protein, and umami flavours.

Classic Pairings

Grilled or roasted red meats

• Ribeye steak

• Dry-aged sirloin or T-bone

• Beef tenderloin with red wine sauce

• Slow-braised beef short ribs

The fat and protein in beef soften the firm tannins of Cabernet-based wines, creating a balanced and harmonious pairing.

Lamb dishes

• Herb-crusted rack of lamb

• Lamb chops with rosemary and garlic

• Slow roasted lamb shoulder

The herbal notes in lamb complement the wine’s subtle earthy and savoury tones.

Game and Rich Meat

These pairings work beautifully with Dominus’ dark fruit and spicy complexity.

• Venison with juniper sauce

• Wild boar ragù

• Duck breast with blackberry or cherry reduction

• Pigeon or quail with mushrooms

The game flavours echo the wine’s earthy, graphite, and spice notes.

Vegetarian Pairings

Full-bodied reds can also work with dishes rich in umami.

• Wild mushroom risotto

• Grilled portobello mushrooms

• Truffle pasta

• Lentil stew with herbs

Mushrooms and earthy ingredients mirror the wine’s savoury character.

Cheese Pairings

Serve Dominus towards the end of the meal with aged cheeses.

• Aged Comté

• Mature Manchego

• Aged Gouda

• Mild blue cheeses

The salt and fat in aged cheeses soften the tannins and highlight the wine’s dark fruit.

Serving Tips

• Decant for 1 to 2 hours, especially for a young vintage like 2020

• Serve at 16–18°C

• Avoid very spicy or acidic dishes, which can clash with the tannic structure.