The strength and courage of a lion. That’s how the owners of Paso Robles’ Daou Vineyards describe their patriarch Joseph Daou. Joseph gave his sons Georges and Daniel his blessing to start a winery on Daou Mountain, and this wine is their tribute to their father. 

Before starting Daou Vineyards, Daniel made wine in his garage from his 1-acre vineyard of Cabernet Sauvignon. He had a goal—to produce the world’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon. But for that, a garage-made wine wouldn’t do, but vineyards in the finest terroir of Paso Robles would do. Daou Mountain is a combination of remarkable geology, microclimate, a 2,200-foot elevation, and steep slopes resulting in a terroir described as “a jewel of ecological elements.”

As stewards of this beautiful terroir, DAOU’s goal is to make unique fine wines that honestly and accurately reflect the potential of the estate and to craft Bordeaux-style wines that combine Old World tradition with New World techniques.

With this wine, it’s clear they’ve achieved that goal. 

Aging: 10 months in 50% new French oak

Tasting Notes: 62% Petite Sirah, 18% Zinfandel, 17% Syrah, 3% Lagrein. Intense aromas of blueberry, cherry, plum and strawberry with undercurrents of lavender and kirsch. The nose evolves with layers of warm leather, truffle, pipe tobacco, black pepper and allspice. Rich and weighty on the palate, this wine delivers a no-holds-barred generosity of bold fruit, blackberry, cassis and plum, underlain by notes of rhubarb, pomegranate and damp forest floor. Subtle hints of black olives, mushroom and tamarind spice concisely complement the balanced and well-rounded flavor profile. A persistent, elegant finish lingers with red cherry and cranberry tones highlighted by hints of dark chocolate.