Named for the father of Georges and Daniel Daou, Soul of a Lion is the crown jewel of DAOU, and an emblem of our quest to produce unsurpassed Cabernet Sauvignon from the terroir of DAOU Mountain.

The 2020 vintage presents an alluring profusion of black cherry, mulberry and Oregon blackberry aromas with notes of leather, cigar box and dark chocolate. Hints of desert sage and creme de menthe accent the rich fruit. The palate is silky and voluptuous, delivering loads of currant, cassis, black raspberry and ripe cherry. Notes of fig and baking spice are underscored by earthy tones of dates and truffle. Mature, ripe tannins yield a weighty, velvety texture integrated with a limestone minerality and subtle oak. A lengthy finish leaves lingering impressions of blackberry, plum and espresso with a touch of white pepper. A wine of immense staying power that will evolve favorably for many years to come.

97 POINTS: WINE ENTHUSIAST - Impressively dark in the glass, this bottling pairs intense purple fruit and flower on this nose with more roasted, umami-laden aromas. The elegant palate is a master of class in tannin management, proving firm structure yet soft in mouthfeel. Flavors of blackberry jam, cocoa, walnut and cracked pepper ride a lingering acidity into the finish. 
 
96 POINTS: VINOUS - The 2020 Soul of a Lion Estate is a deep, dark, nearly impenetrable ruby color. It has a beguiling bouquet that blends spicy dried flowers, cardamon and red currants. Sweet smoke hints add lift. This flows like pure silk without a single edge in sight. Guided by juicy acidity, textural waves of wild berry fruits soothe the palate. For all of its power and depth, the 2020 finishes remarkably fresh. It’s tannic, yet they are sweet and perfectly formed in a harmonious concentration that tugs at the senses yet never tires them out. The cellaring potential here is off the charts.