Dominus Napa Valley Red 2011

• v94

Vinous94 Points "Savory herbs, menthol, smoke and licorice are some of the aromas that open up in the glass in the 2011 Dominus. This is a relatively immediate, expressive Dominus with plenty of near-term appeal. The style is open and succulent for the year, with lovely balance and poise. Crushed rose petals and dried herbs linger in the close. With time in the glass, the 2011 fleshes out nicely. In 2011 Dominus is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc."

• js93

James SucklingWonderful aromas of tobacco, currant, berry and mineral. Ink and lead pencil. Full body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Lovely texture and freshness. Not the amazing 2010 but excellent. Better in 2015.

• st92

International Wine CellarGood dark red. Perfumed, cool nose melds redcurrant, tobacco leaf, licorice, coffee, leather, clove oil and chicory, plus piquant notes of pepper (green, black and white!). Riper, suppler and deeper than the Napanook blend, but still with a pronounced herbal quality to the currant, tobacco leaf and clove oil flavors. More lift here too, though the dusty tannins arrive early. 90-92

• ws88

Wine SpectatorSmoke, dried herb, dried currant, tobacco leaf and crushed rock notes give this a strong, assertive personality that veers toward a roasted herb raciness on the finish. Drink now through 2021. 5,000 cases made.