TASTING NOTES:
The 2019 Seventeen Forty Reserve is a blend of 66% Cabernet Franc and 34% Merlot. Made from free-run juice, it was aged for 20 months in 70% new French oak. Deep ruby-purple, it has aromas of wild berries, tar and bitter chocolate with savory and floral undertones. The palate is supple and approachable, with plush layers of Morello cherry and blueberry fruit, detailed spicy accents and a long, layered finish.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 94 pts
WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
Inspired by the wines of Saint-Émilion, the 2019 DAOU Reserve Seventeen Forty presents a harmonious marriage of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The nose is rich and refined, revealing scents of ripe boysenberry, fragrant plum, sweet cherry, cocoa and pomegranate. Subtle notes of crème de cassis, black olive, pencil lead and sandalwood underpin the lush fruit aromas. Flavors of blackberry, cherry, dark chocolate and espresso dominate the palate, accented by hints of truffle, tobacco leaf and dried flowers. This wine is beautifully structured, with supple tannins that provide the backbone for a long, vibrant finish of black plum, currant, loganberry and mocha. While eminently approachable now, this 2019 vintage will reward careful cellaring for years to come.
