Daou 'Soul Of A Lion' Cabernet Sauvignon

Experience the pinnacle of luxury with the DAOU 'Soul of a Lion' Cabernet Sauvignon, a masterpiece crafted in the elevated Adelaida District of Paso Robles. Composed of meticulously blended Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, this wine epitomizes elegance and complexity. Its dense ruby-purple hues captivate the eye, while aromas of black cherry, blackberry, cocoa, and cedar draw you in. On the palate, velvety tannins and bright acidity serve as a foundation for flavors of ripe blackberry, plum, and dried herbs, all enhanced by exotic spice from 22 months in proprietary French oak. Perfectly balanced and exquisitely layered, this wine boasts a long, memorable finish and exceptional aging potential, making it a crown jewel for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Process & Profile

The DAOU 'Soul of a Lion' Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterpiece born from the unparalleled terroir of DAOU Mountain in Paso Robles' Adelaida District. Crafted with meticulous care, this flagship wine is composed of a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Each vintage is aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak, using proprietary barrels crafted from fine-grain pink oak, imparting a complex, nuanced flavor profile. The vineyard's calcareous clay soil, similar to the Right Bank of Bordeaux, and a climate mirroring Napa's St. Helena create an environment of power and purity. The wine is made using free-run juice and proprietary native yeast, ensuring exceptional balance and depth. With its high phenolic content, this is one of the most age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons in the world.

Tasting Notes

Each sip of the 'Soul of a Lion' is a sensory journey. The 2021 vintage reveals intense dark fruit aromas of black cherry, blackberry, blueberry jam, and black currant intertwined with notes of baking spices, sage, and graphite. The palate is equally captivating, with rich flavors of chocolate-covered blueberry, tobacco, mocha, and toasted oak. Vibrant tannins and bright acidity provide an elegant structure, leading to a long, commanding finish with hints of cedar, vanilla, and subtle minerality that linger beautifully. This full-bodied wine perfectly balances complexity, opulence, and refinement—truly a testament to the DAOU pursuit of perfection.

What Makes It Special

'Soul of a Lion' is the crown jewel of DAOU's winemaking pursuits and an homage to Joseph Daou, whose leadership and vision inspired the estate. The high-altitude vineyard, at 2,200 feet, benefits from steep slopes and consistent exposure to the sun, fostering optimal grape ripening. The use of cutting-edge optical sorting and phenolic analysis ensures unparalleled precision in crafting each bottle. Moreover, the wine is highly acclaimed, receiving impressive ratings like 97 points from Wine Enthusiast, solidifying its reputation as one of the top-tier Cabernet Sauvignons in the world.

How to Enjoy

Elevate your wine experience with the DAOU 'Soul of a Lion' by serving it at 63-65¬∞F. Decant it for about two hours to let its aromas and flavors unfold fully. This bold, structured wine pairs beautifully with grilled ribeye steak, roasted lamb, charcuterie, or even a truffle-infused mushroom risotto. Its velvety tannins and rich fruit profile make it equally enjoyable on its own for contemplative sipping. Whether celebrating a special occasion or savoring a quiet moment of indulgence, this wine promises to elevate any experience. Experience the pinnacle of California winemaking with DAOU's 'Soul of a Lion'—a wine that embodies heritage, innovation, and world-class craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions