DAOU Vineyards Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Region and Vineyards

The wine originates from DAOU Mountain in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles, one of California's most celebrated terroirs for Bordeaux varieties. Perched at elevations exceeding 600 meters, the vineyards benefit from calcareous clay soils of marine origin and dramatic diurnal shifts that preserve acidity while achieving full phenolic ripeness.

The 2021 growing season was defined by a dry winter, punctuated by a single major storm in February and a rare July shower that revitalized the soils. Summer heatwaves were tempered by a cooling trend from mid-August, allowing grapes extended hang time. Small berries and naturally low yields resulted in remarkable concentration and varietal purity. The mountain's reputation for producing some of the highest phenolic levels in the world underpins the wine's intensity, depth, and longevity.

Winemaking

Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from rigorously selected rows of the estate. Only free-run juice is used after aggressive thinning and meticulous optical sorting, with fermentation conducted exclusively by wild yeasts cultured on DAOU Mountain, enhancing native character.

Élevage lasted 30 months in 100% new French oak, sourced from elite cooperages including Taransaud, Berger, ANA Jupille, and custom-made Patrimony barrels. These rare barrels, many with extended seasoning and bespoke toasts, ensure seamless oak integration and remarkable complexity. This long élevage, combined with restrained intervention, preserves the pure essence of the fruit while layering structure and aromatic finesse.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with brilliant clarity and concentration.
• Aroma: Red currant, cherry preserve, and plum intermingle with fresh tobacco leaf, star anise, lavender, sagebrush, and a mineral edge.
• Palate: Extravagantly layered with cherry, blueberry, baking spice, smoked meat, and salted dark chocolate. Silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and perfectly integrated oak culminate in an enduring, triumphant finish.

Did you know?

The Patrimony label represents the crown jewel of the Daou brothers' vision, established to rival First Growth Bordeaux in quality. In 2023, DAOU Vineyards was acquired by Treasury Wine Estates for $1 billion, marking one of the most significant wine acquisitions of the decade and positioning Patrimony as a global luxury brand.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Prime rib roast: The wine's depth and umami resonance mirror the richness of slow-roasted beef.
• Braised short ribs: The tannic structure pairs beautifully with the succulence of slow-cooked meats.
• Venison with blackberry reduction: Game flavors echo the wild herb and dark fruit notes of the wine.
• Dark chocolate truffles: The bittersweet, silky richness highlights the wine's cocoa and spice undertones.

History of DAOU Vineyards

The story of DAOU Vineyards began with Georges and Daniel Daou, who immigrated to the United States from Lebanon. Inspired by their father Joseph Daou, a man of vision and courage, the brothers dreamed of creating a winery that would rival the greatest in the world. After achieving success in the tech industry, they sold their company in 1998 and dedicated themselves to their true passion: winemaking.

In 2007, they discovered the extraordinary terroir of what would become DAOU Mountain, a 100-hectare estate perched at 670 meters (2,200 feet) above sea level in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles. The property, once owned by André Tchelistcheff, was renowned for its calcareous clay soils, steep slopes, and Mediterranean climate—ideal for cultivating Bordeaux varietals. The Daou brothers reimagined the site, planting high-density vineyards and building a state-of-the-art winery.

Guided by a shared vision, Georges leads the business operations while Daniel, a trained winemaker, focuses on crafting wines of distinction. Over the years, their dedication to innovation, sustainable practices, and excellence has made DAOU Vineyards a benchmark producer in California.

Region and Vineyards

DAOU Mountain, located in the Paso Robles AVA, is one of the most unique and prestigious vineyard sites in California. Its calcareous clay soils, similar to those found in Bordeaux, provide excellent drainage and impart a distinct minerality to the wines. The high elevation and steep slopes create dramatic diurnal temperature shifts, with cool nights preserving acidity and warm days ensuring optimal ripening.

The Adelaida District’s climate is influenced by Pacific Ocean breezes, fostering balanced and complex wines. The vineyards are planted with Bordeaux varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, as well as select white varietals like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The estate employs sustainable farming practices, reflecting the Daou family’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Wine Range of DAOU Vineyards

DAOU Vineyards offers a diverse portfolio, crafted with precision and passion:

• Patrimony: The flagship label representing the pinnacle of winemaking, featuring ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvignon and blends.
• Reserve Wines: Highlighting the best vineyard blocks, these wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Bordeaux-style blends.
• Estate Wines: A reflection of DAOU Mountain’s terroir, focusing on varietal purity and elegance.
• Pessimist: A bold and accessible range of red blends showcasing the expressive style of Paso Robles.
• Bodyguard: A celebration of approachability and finesse, with a focus on varietal wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

Did you know?

The Daou brothers describe DAOU Mountain as “a jewel of ecological elements,” a phrase originally coined by legendary winemaker André Tchelistcheff. The estate’s calcareous soils, reminiscent of those in Bordeaux, inspired their vision to create wines that could stand among the world’s best.