Dominus Estate Othello
Napa Valley, California, United States
Vintage:2023 (Current)
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Reviews
Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points
The third wine of this great estate (and made in reasonable quantities), the 2023 Othello is a pretty, Bordeaux-like effort with juicy black cherry, leather, and tobacco notes in a medium-bodied, charming, deliciously balanced, satisfying style. Based on 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Petit Verdot and aged 18 months in 20% new French oak, it's best enjoyed over the coming 7-8 years. Drink 2025-2033.
Vinous Media 90 Points
The 2023 Othello is a tasty entry-level bottling from the front blocks on the property, those on either side of Hopper Creek. Juicy dark red fruit, cinnamon, new leather and cedar are pushed forward in this delicious, effortless Cabernet Sauvignon. Best of all, this should be a fabulous value, too.
Overview
Produced from the historic Napanook vineyard in Yountville, California, Othello is a wine that expresses the singularity of its exceptional terroir and is accessible and enjoyable in its youth.
It was at the famed Napanook vineyard that Christian Moueix established Dominus Estate in 1983. An historical site, it was the source of fruit for some of the finest Napa Valley wines in the 1940’s and 1950’s. Notably, the vineyard’s history can be traced back to Napa Valley’s beginnings, when in 1838 George Yount, for whom the town of Yountville was named, first planted grapevines there.
Today, the vineyard produces three wines: Dominus, its flagship, Napanook, and Othello. A model for its sustainable farming practices, the Napanook vineyard has been hailed for its dry-farming, which shuns watering the vines, thus spurring them to draw deeply on the land’s unique geology.
The resulting wines are an expression of this unique vineyard. In 2021, Dominus Estate received its CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) certification for organic farming practices.
Winemaking
Meticulous viticultural and winemaking practices are undertaken with the objective of producing wines that are pure, balanced and complex. Minimal intervention and restraint throughout the process of grape berry selection, fermentation and aging preserve the character of the fruit. The resulting wines are an expression of this unique vineyard.
Tasting Notes
Vibrant, earthy, purple plum and cacao.
Harvest Notes
The 2023 growing season unfolded at a moderate pace, shaped by generous rainfall, mild spring temperatures, and a later-than-usual harvest that rewarded patience. Total rainfall from July 2022 through June 2023 reached 51 inches (historical average of 31 inches) replenishing soils and providing ample water reserves heading into the growing season. Spring conditions led to a complete berry set. Veraison occurred roughly two weeks later than average, and the extended growing cycle allowed for even, gradual ripening and the development of depth and balance. An abundant harvest took place between October 7 and 18 under favorable weather conditions.
Technical Information
Varietals: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot
Harvest Start Date: October 7, 2023
Harvest End Date: October 18, 2023
New Oak: 20%
