The 2002 vintage exhibits a profoundness of color – a dark red that is nearly purple. The nose is immediate yet subtle, complex yet refined. It starts with an aroma of leather, continues with an essence of roasted almonds and finishes with a lingering reminiscence of blackberry. This wine is harmonious and balanced; tannins are integrated with flavors of caramel, cacao, cinnamon and warm chutney. The finish is expressive, feminine, aromatic and enduring.
The 2002 blend is comprised of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot.
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. - 99pts Robert Parker
Winemaker Notes
The 2002 vintage exhibits a profoundness of color – a dark red that is nearly purple. The nose is immediate yet subtle, complex yet refined. It starts with an aroma of leather, continues with an essence of roasted almonds and finishes with a lingering reminiscence of blackberry. This wine is harmonious and balanced; tannins are integrated with flavors of caramel, cacao, cinnamon and warm chutney. The finish is expressive, feminine, aromatic and enduring.
About the Producer
Enjoying a temperate climate, the vineyard's volcanic, well draining soils are specifically suited to growing Cabernet Sauvignon and the other Bordeaux varietals which compose the Dominus Estate wines. The soil is gravelly and clay loam. Meticulous efforts are made throughout the seasons to produce grapes of the highest quality for Dominus Estate wines. During the winter season, precise cane pruning ensures ideal cluster spacing for optimal fruit ripening. Dry farming relies on a deep root system to take advantage of natural water sources from rain and underground supplies. The french plough removes invasive weeds and encourages deep root growth. Cluster thinning optimizes quality through yield regulation. Strategic trellising ensures perfect canopy management. Frequent grape sampling provides invaluable data for determining optimal ripeness. Rinsing the grapes 10 to 15 days before harvest removes dust and enhances the purity of the fruit. Hand-picking with small french shears instead of harvest knives minimizes bruising and vine damage. Small harvest baskets preserve the integrity of the clusters as they are transported to the winery. The sunny side of the vines is picked a few days before the shady side respecting perfect maturity. Dominus Estate wines are made with an objective of purity, balance and complexity.
