Dominus Estate Napa Valley 2002

99 points Robert Parker: "This 2002 was virtually perfect when I tasted it in early May. Even better than I predicted seven years ago, this 4,500-case blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot has blossomed beautifully, revealing even greater intensity and potential than I predicted. A flawless, seamless integration of tannin, wood, alcohol and acidity is found in this dense, plum/purple-colored Dominus, along with copious notes of sweet black currants interwoven with kirsch, forest floor, unsmoked cigar tobacco, new saddle leather and forest floor. Full-bodied with velvety tannins, stunning elegance and a 45-second finish, this sensational 2002 rivals two of the all-time great wines made at Dominus, 1991 and 1994. It is hard to believe that proprietor Christian Moueix’s Dominus Estate has already celebrated its 25th anniversary and is moving toward 30 years with the 2012-2013 vintages. The 2002 will drink well for another 20 years. Drink: 2012-2032. (Jun 2012)"

98 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2002 Dominus offers a striking interplay of the earthy/savory character typical of this site with the natural breadth of the vintage. The combination is super attractive, to say the least. Succulent red cherry, plum, five-spice, cedar, leather and tobacco all build as the 2002 shows off its sumptuous personality. A long, beautifully resonant finish caps off this stunning Dominus. The 2002 is a gorgeous Napa Valley Cabernet to drink over the next decade or more. It's a fabulous effort from Christian Moueix and winemaker Boris Champy. Drink: 2022-2034. (May 2024)"

95 points Wine Spectator: "The fruit pops nicely in this offering, with a burst of dark currant mixed with flashes of humus, iodine and sweet tobacco. The texture, which is caressing while keeping form and focus, extends through a finish that shows off anise, apple wood, tar and warm cast iron. Tannic but integrated, dark but with a hint of sweetness, this offers a touch of old school to boot and is currently hitting its stride. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot.—Non-blind Dominus retrospective (August 2022). Drink now through 2035. 5,000 cases made. (2022)"

95 points Jeff Leve (The Wine Cellar Insider): "Ripe, round and luscious, with layers of deep, dark red and black fruits, opulent textures, and waves of ripe, juicy, sweet fruits in the finish that continue through to the back end. If I was being picky, a touch of heat intrudes in all the sweet, fruits and licorice that linger in the finish. This is really showing well. Perhaps 30 minutes of decanting works here, but as it is about to hit 20 years of age, the wine is developed and ready to go. (Oct 2021)"

94 points Falstaff: "Deep ruby garnet, ochre rim. Initially restrained, a hint of apricots, delicate hints of milk chocolate, nuances of figs. Tightly woven on the palate, already appears very mature, still somewhat closed on the finish, this wine still needs time, patience is required. (Sep 2011)"

94 points Wine & Spirits: "A great vintage of Dominus, this wine combines staying power with tremendous elegance on release. Christian Moueix has farmed John Daniel's classic vineyard since 1983; he now works with Boris Champy to make this wine. If you can procure a case, the complex red fruit scents and satin pleasure of the texture make it well worth opening a bottle now. Plan to drink most of it between 2010 and 2014, when the earthy tannins will have fully matured, adding more complexity to that voluptuous texture. Then save a few bottles to see whether this or the '01 will age best. (Dec 2005)"