Tasting Notes
JancisRobinson.com 17.5+
Mainly Cabernet Sauvignon with Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. See the Ulysses vertical below. Christian Moueix s second vineyard after Dominus, just over the border from Yountville. Edouard Moueix explained that his father studied at UC Davis in 1968 and 1969. In 1983 he had the chance to invest in Napanook [which became Dominus] one mile south of Ulysses. In 2008 he was able to buy this parcel from Swanson. The first vintage was not until 2012 because considerable replanting was needed. Dry farmed, as at Dominus, so a different, much deeper, root system from irrigated vineyards evolves. The first few vintages were therefore unrepresentative. It s a 40-acre estate on gravel with a little clay-loam. In charge is Tod Mostero, whose aim is to express freshness. The estate is organic ( which is much easier than in Bordeaux! according to Moueix). 50% new oak. Early draining of tanks to get elements from the skins but not seeds. Yields are 2.5-3 tons/acre and 1,300 cases are made. Quite a complex nose. Distinctive and much drier than most other Oakville Cabs. Sappy and the most digestible of the wines. Drier even than Opus One! Needs time. (JR)
Anticipated maturity: 2024-2033
