Wine Advocate – 98 Points
The 2019 Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon was made with free-run juice and matured for 30 months in 100% new French oak. It has a deep ruby color and alluring tones of truffle, brown sugar and coffee to begin, opening with time to very pure cassis, boysenberry, tobacco, garrigue and aniseed. The palate is supple and fresh with surprisingly restrained, mineral-laced fruits and a fan of spicy accents across the long finish. This ultra sleek, elegant Cabernet evolves continually in the glass and has the harmonious structure it needs to go the distance in the cellar. Dec/2022 —Erin Brooks | robertparker.com
Decanter – 98 Points
A benchmark California Cabernet Sauvignon which showcases the strength and tenacity of this revered grape. On the nose, a juxtaposition of expressive, bright fruit plus a grounded earthiness. The delicacy yet force of this wine creates a most pleasant tension that you seek to reconcile with each sip. Flavours of blackberry, bramble and dark chocolate sit side by side with floral and sweet cedar notes. Tannins display laser-sharp integration. A wine with thoughtful, intentional power.
Jeb Dunnuck – 97-100 Points
Lastly, the 2019 Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon follows suit, revealing a dense purple hue as well as awesome notes of black raspberries, cassis, scorched earth, graphite, new leather, vanilla, and exotic spices. It’s another stunning, magical wine that offers full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, and just a great, great finish. Sep/2020 — | jebdunnuck.com
Vinous Media – 97 Points
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Patrimony lifts from the glass with a classic bouquet of black currant, lifting hints of rosemary, graphite and dusty sage. It’s silky, nearly creamy in feel, with depths of ripe dark red fruit and sweet spice that swirl throughout. A web of fine-grained tannins engulfs the palate. While powerful and structured, the impact is well-measured, leaving the senses clenched in youthful poise as pretty inner florals slowly fade. What a beauty, and with such an amazingly bright. May/2023 —Eric Guido | vinous.com
Wine Enthusiast – 97 Points
Opaque in color, the wine opens with intense yet elegant aromas of cassis, toasted espresso and roasted walnut paste. Polished tannins frame the rich sip, loaded with scorched earth, dark cassis and purple-flower flavors, proving very dry yet luxurious, with a lingering finish. Dec/2022 —Matt Kettmann | winemag.com
Description
The DAOU Patrimony Cabernet is an exquisite wine that embodies the legacy and artistry of winemaking at the DAOU Vineyards in Paso Robles, California. Crafted with meticulous care and a deep respect for the terroir, this Cabernet Sauvignon represents the pinnacle of the DAOU family’s winemaking tradition.
The grapes used in the production of the DAOU Patrimony Cabernet are sourced exclusively from the renowned DAOU Mountain estate, situated at an elevation of 2,200 feet. This high-altitude vineyard is characterized by its unique microclimate, with cool nights and warm days that provide ideal growing conditions for the grapes. The result is fruit of exceptional quality and intensity.
The wine is a true expression of the terroir, with rich and complex flavors that showcase the essence of the DAOU Mountain. On the nose, it entices with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and ripe plum, intermingled with hints of cedar, tobacco, and earthy undertones. On the palate, the wine delivers a symphony of flavors, including dark chocolate, black cherry, and a touch of vanilla, all framed by velvety tannins and well-integrated oak.
The DAOU Patrimony Cabernet is crafted with great precision and attention to detail. The grapes are handpicked and sorted to ensure only the finest fruit is used. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for a minimum of 18 months, allowing it to develop its full potential and attain a remarkable balance between fruit, structure, and elegance.
With its impeccable craftsmanship and remarkable flavor profile, the DAOU Patrimony Cabernet is a wine that commands attention. It is a wine for the connoisseur, a testament to the DAOU family’s commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality and distinction. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a fine meal, this Cabernet Sauvignon promises an unforgettable tasting experience, transporting the drinker to the breathtaking vineyards of the DAOU Mountain estate.
The history of the DAOU Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon is deeply intertwined with the story of the DAOU family and their passion for winemaking. The DAOU brothers, Georges and Daniel, founded DAOU Vineyards in Paso Robles, California, in 2007 with the goal of producing world-class wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.
The journey towards creating the Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon began with the acquisition of the DAOU Mountain estate, a stunning property located in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles. Recognizing the exceptional potential of the terroir, the brothers embarked on an ambitious endeavor to craft a wine that would embody the essence of this special place.
The DAOU Mountain estate, situated at an elevation of 2,200 feet, offers a diverse range of soil types, sun exposure, and microclimates. The cool nights and warm days, along with the unique calcareous soils, provide an ideal environment for growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes of unparalleled quality and character.
The Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon represents the pinnacle of the DAOU family’s winemaking efforts. It is a wine that reflects the heritage and legacy of the family, as well as their unwavering commitment to excellence. The name “Patrimony” is derived from the Latin word “patrimonium,” meaning heritage or legacy, which is a fitting tribute to the generations of winemaking knowledge and expertise passed down through the DAOU family.
The production process of the Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon is marked by meticulous attention to detail and a devotion to quality. The grapes are carefully handpicked and sorted to ensure that only the finest fruit is used. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for a minimum of 18 months, allowing it to develop its unique character and complexity.
Released only in exceptional vintages, the DAOU Patrimony Cabernet Sauvignon is a true collector’s wine. It is a testament to the DAOU family’s relentless pursuit of winemaking perfection and their desire to create a wine that embodies the essence of the DAOU Mountain estate. With every sip, one can taste the rich history and passion that have gone into crafting this extraordinary Cabernet Sauvignon.
Wine Advocate (WA)
Influential Wine Criticism for Global Wine Lovers
Founded in 1978 by Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate revolutionized the wine industry with its adoption of the 100-point scoring system. It quickly became the most influential source of wine ratings globally, especially for Bordeaux, Rhône, and California wines. Parker’s precise palate and fearless opinions gained him a loyal readership. Today, under the editorial leadership of Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and a team of regional specialists like Joe Czerwinski and William Kelley, the publication continues to deliver deeply researched, blind-tasted reviews with global reach. It remains subscription-based and independent, with over 30,000 wines reviewed each year.
Wine Spectator (WS)
America’s Leading Wine Magazine and Rating Publication
Wine Spectator has been a staple of the wine world since its founding in 1976 by Bob Morrisey. Purchased shortly after by Marvin R. Shanken, the publication grew into the most widely read wine magazine in the U.S. It is known for its blind tastings, detailed vintage charts, consumer-focused reviews, and accessible scoring system. Its famous “Top 100 Wines” list each year influences buying trends across the industry. With a team of dedicated critics covering nearly every wine-producing region on Earth, Wine Spectator remains a trusted name for both collectors and casual drinkers alike, reaching millions in both print and digital formats.
James Suckling (JS)
Global Critic Known for Rapid Reviews and Bold Ratings
James Suckling spent nearly three decades at Wine Spectator, serving as Senior Editor and European Bureau Chief, before launching his own platform in 2010. Renowned for his fast-paced review style, Suckling and his team rate more than 25,000 wines annually from all over the world — with a strong focus on Italy, Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Chile. His reviews are direct and generous, often accompanied by tasting videos and interviews with winemakers. Suckling also hosts large-scale tasting events around the globe and maintains strong influence on luxury wine buying in Asia, particularly Hong Kong and China.
Wine Enthusiast (WE)
Wine Ratings, Lifestyle, and Buying Guide
Since 1979, Wine Enthusiast has published wine reviews, buying guides, and lifestyle content for both entry-level drinkers and experienced collectors. The magazine evaluates thousands of wines annually using a 100-point scale and offers detailed, easy-to-understand tasting notes. Its team includes regional editors specializing in North America, Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere. Wine Enthusiast also provides wine accessories and hosts wine events. It’s known for its strong online presence and educational tone, making it one of the most accessible and widely read wine publications in the United States.
The Wine Independent (TWI)
Subscription-Based, Critically-Researched Wine Analysis
Founded in 2021 by former Wine Advocate editor-in-chief Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and wine photographer Johan Berglund, The Wine Independent emphasizes transparency, independence, and long-form, in-depth critical reviews. It operates on a subscription-only model and maintains no advertising relationships, ensuring its opinions are entirely editorial and not influenced by wineries or sponsors. Their reviews, primarily focused on Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Champagne, feature detailed tasting notes and region-specific insights, and the site aims to be a trusted source for high-end collectors and trade professionals.
Burghound (BH)
Burgundy Expertise and Global Pinot Noir Specialist
Allen Meadows launched Burghound.com in 2001 after a successful career in finance and years of deep study into the wines of Burgundy. His quarterly reports are considered the gold standard for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, especially from France and Oregon. Burghound is highly regarded for its vintage retrospectives, producer profiles, and strict scoring discipline. Meadows is known for revisiting wines across vintages to track aging and performance, providing valuable data for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine (CGCW)
Decades of California-Centric Ratings and Commentary
Founded in 1974 by Charles Olken, the Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine was one of the first American wine publications dedicated exclusively to California wines. It employs a star-based rating system rather than numerical scores, offering short, consumer-friendly reviews with strong editorial consistency. It reviews wines monthly and is particularly noted for its fair treatment of smaller wineries, as well as for educational columns that provide insight into varietals, regions, and vintage perspectives.
Wine & Spirits (W&S)
Restaurant Trends, Trade Tastings, and Thoughtful Reviews
Wine & Spirits Magazine has been publishing since 1982 and is known for its blind tasting panels, sustainable producer features, and restaurant-focused wine trends. The magazine’s annual Restaurant Poll surveys top U.S. restaurants for their bestselling wines, offering unique insight into trade buying patterns. It covers both domestic and international regions with tasting panels led by respected critics, and places a strong emphasis on balanced, food-friendly wines. The publication is widely read by industry professionals, sommeliers, and wine educators.
The Tasting Panel (TP)
Trade-Oriented Publication Blending Ratings with Wine Business Insight
The Tasting Panel is a leading beverage trade magazine that reviews wine, spirits, and beer with an eye toward the business side of the industry. Edited by Meridith May, the magazine blends product ratings with distributor insights, marketing trends, and interviews with industry leaders. Its wine scores often appear in distributor portfolios and retail shelf talkers. Known for a broad palate and market-savvy commentary, The Tasting Panel holds a unique position between reviewer and trade magazine.
Vinous (VN)
Modern Multimedia Wine Criticism with a Global Reach
Vinous was launched in 2013 by Antonio Galloni, a former lead critic at The Wine Advocate. The platform combines written reviews, video content, interactive maps, and tasting notes across a global array of regions, from Barolo to California. Vinous has absorbed other major outlets like Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar, expanding its reach and credibility. With contributors like Eric Guido, Josh Raynolds, and Neal Martin, Vinous is widely respected by collectors and industry professionals.
Stephen Tanzer (ST)
Veteran Critic Known for Precise, Classic Palate
Stephen Tanzer was the publisher of the International Wine Cellar for nearly 25 years before merging with Vinous in 2014. Known for his conservative scoring style and deep knowledge of Bordeaux, Burgundy, and U.S. wines, Tanzer remains a respected contributor at Vinous. His legacy includes pioneering English-language coverage of less-celebrated wine regions and maintaining credibility with both trade professionals and collectors. Tanzer’s tasting notes are concise, technical, and valued for their consistency.
Jancis Robinson (JR)
Master of Wine and One of the Most Respected Critics Worldwide
Jancis Robinson MW is a globally recognized wine critic, journalist, and author based in the UK. She was the first person outside the wine trade to earn the Master of Wine title in 1984. Her Oxford Companion to Wine and World Atlas of Wine (co-authored with Hugh Johnson) are essential references in the industry. Robinson serves as wine advisor to the British royal cellar and is known for her scholarly yet accessible reviews and educational content at JancisRobinson.com.
Jeb Dunnuck (JD)
Former Aerospace Engineer Turned Rhône and U.S. Wine Authority
Jeb Dunnuck began his wine career writing a blog focused on the wines of the Rhône Valley and Southern France. He later joined The Wine Advocate before founding JebDunnuck.com in 2017. His publication focuses heavily on U.S. regions such as California and Washington, as well as France’s Rhône and Bordeaux. Known for a generous palate and bold tasting language, Dunnuck provides hundreds of detailed reviews per release cycle, frequently visiting producers and publishing regional deep-dives.
Decanter Magazine (D)
British Wine Authority Blending Criticism and Culture
Founded in 1975, Decanter is the UK’s oldest consumer wine publication. It has built a global reputation for thoughtful commentary, extensive blind tastings, and the annual Decanter World Wine Awards, one of the largest and most respected wine competitions. With contributors including Steven Spurrier, Jane Anson, and Andrew Jefford, Decanter provides wine education, interviews, travel features, and expert reviews. Its editorial voice reflects a balance of Old World tradition and New World curiosity.
Jane Anson (JA)
Bordeaux Specialist and Authoritative Wine Writer
Jane Anson spent nearly 20 years writing for Decanter Magazine before launching her own subscription-based platform, Inside Bordeaux. She is one of the most respected contemporary voices on Bordeaux, having authored “Inside Bordeaux” — a highly praised and scholarly reference work. Anson is noted for her deep engagement with vineyard practices, producer interviews, and regional changes. She holds a diploma from the Bordeaux Wine School and continues to publish detailed tasting reports and essays for…
Tasting Book ~ (TB)
Global Collector-Sourced Ratings and Reviews
The Tasting Book is an international digital platform that compiles wine reviews from professional critics, sommeliers, collectors, and enthusiasts around the world. Launched in Finland, it has grown to feature tens of thousands of wines with reviews from multiple perspectives. Each entry aggregates community feedback alongside professional commentary. Tasting Book is especially valued for its crowd-sourced balance and the ability to compare opinions across tasters. It is widely used by wine professionals, collectors, and auction houses.
