NAPANOOK 2020

Description

Grape: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot

Winemaking:

Gentle pump-overs and extraction
18 months in French oak barrels (20% new)

Made solely from grapes grown at the historic Napanook Vineyard in Yountville, Napanook is blended from vineyard blocks carefully selected for their lively fruit, soft tannins, and early maturing characteristics. The wine is created to be consumed young and enjoyed with food, but will also age well for more than a decade.

In 1997, a winery designed by the Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron was completed. Due to strict enforcement of Napa county regulations, it is closed to the public.

In 2012, having confirmed its signature style over the course of 15 vintages, the iconic Napanook label was reimagined in black and white.

In 2021, Dominus Estate received its CCOF (“California Certified Organic Farmers”) certification for organic farming practices.

Best Food Pairings for Napanook

Red Meat & Game

• Grilled Ribeye Steak – Fatty cuts balance the wine’s structure and tannins.
• Lamb Chops with Rosemary – Complements the earthy and herbal notes.
• Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce – The wine’s fruit and acidity match the richness and slight sweetness of the sauce.
• Venison or Wild Boar – Ideal with mature Napanook vintages due to depth and gamey flavor

Poultry

• Roast Chicken with Herbs – Especially good with slightly aged Napanook.
• Coq au Vin (Red Wine Chicken Stew) – A rustic French dish for an elegant Napa blend.

Ceeese

• Aged Gouda
• Comté
• Manchego
• Blue Cheese (milder styles) – Pair carefully with older vintages.

Vegetarian Options

• Mushroom Risotto or Wild Mushroom Tart – Umami from mushrooms pairs wonderfully with the wine’s earthy character.
• Grilled Portobello Burgers
• Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika – Heartiness mirrors the structure of the wine.

🍽️ Tips for Pairing:

• Decant younger vintages for 1–2 hours.  Zalto Axium Decanter 

• Serve around 16–18°C

• Avoid very spicy dishes or heavy tomato sauces they may clash with the wine’s tannins.