Dominus owner Christian Moueix had always been intrigued by the potential of southernOakvilles terroirs, so when the Schmidt Ranch came onto the market in 2008, he jumped at the chance to acquire it. The property, renamed Ulysses, sits on an alluvial fan, revealing similar soils to the better-drained western part of DominusNapanookvineyard. But climactically the site is very different. Here, the cooling influence of the San Pablo Bay is mitigated by the Yountville hills, so summer temperatures at Ulysses can be as much as four degrees Fahrenheit warmer. Upon acquiring the property, an extensive program of replanting began, informed by over 30 years experience at Dominus.

JD97

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (90%) with the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Incredible aromatics of red and black currants, spring flowers, graphite, camphor, and cedar define the aromatics, and it’s incredibly polished and elegant on the palate, with medium to full body, gorgeous tannins, and a great finish. This is another awesome 2019 that matches ample richness and depth with a terrific sense of finesse. Drink bottles over the coming two decades. – Jeb Dunnuck