Though reserved in persona, this offers a deep well of red and black currant preserves laced with tobacco, loam, warm paving stone and savory notes that lend energy and cut. A singed alder frame guides the finish, which shows the succulence of the vintage despite being buried deeply. There’s no bombast at all -- the rare Napa Cabernet that seems intent on discretion -- but this expands easily in the glass while gulping air. Patience will be rewarded. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2030 through 2048.

Pure and nicely defined, with a lilting core of cassis, cherry and plum notes that stream through, keeping touches of tobacco, ink and warm paving stone tucked in the background. The fresh finish is nicely knit, with a subtle iron twang at the very end. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2027 through 2038.

Pleasantly plump and up front in persona, with a pure beam of cassis and cherry puree flanked with subtle tobacco and singed cedar notes. Fresh in finish and ready to go. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2031.

Easily rivaling the excellent 2021—might it be even better?—Dominus's 2023 Napanook originates largely from the middle portion of the vineyard as a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Qualitatively and stylistically, it sits nicely between the lighter, crisper Othello and the vin de garde produced from the more gravelly section of the vineyard at the back, closest to the Mayacamas. Cherries and dusty loam are joined by hints of vanilla on the nose, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is lush, with a seductive swell of fruit and tannins that flows seamlessly into a long finish tinged with black olives and black tea, framed by soft tannins.

Coming primarily from the front of the property, closest to Highway 29, the 2023 Othello Red Wine sees the least new oak of the three wines emanating from the Dominus vineyard, only 15% to 20%. This blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Petit Verdot offers up a pleasant mix of cherries, pomegranate and cassis, plus subtle herbal notes and a hint of orange zest on the nose, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is silky-textured, ending on a tart, cranberry-ish note.