97 PTS: JAMES SUCKLING - "Savory aromas of wild black fruit, tobacco leaves, cigar box and cooking spices. The palate is full-bodied with firm yet integrated tannins and bright acid carrying complex notes of blood plums, bramble berries, graphite and earth. A classically styled Bordeaux blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% cabernet franc A very complete and structured wine that will age for decades to come. Drink or hold.

96 PTS: ROBERT PARKER - "The 2021 Caves des Lions is a barrel sample of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc matured for 22 months in 100% new French oak. The nose is bursting with blueberry, baked plum, chocolate and violet aromas, plus latent nuances suggesting there's plenty more to emerge as this evolves. The full-bodied palate is expressive and inviting with floral fruit. It has plush tannins, juicy acidity and a long, graphite-laced finish. It is due to be bottled at the end of 2024."

Daou's 2021 Patrimony Caves des Lion is a full-bodied red blend from the Adelaida District of Paso Robles, where DAOU's high-elevation mountain terroir produces wines of remarkable depth and longevity. Dark crimson in the glass, the nose is concentrated and complex — plum, blackberry jam, blueberry, boysenberry, and licorice accented by wildflowers, cedarwood, sage, and wet stone. On the palate, bright tannins and mouthwatering acidity are balanced by sleek oak, with blackberry, chocolate, pomegranate, tobacco, and graphite woven seamlessly together. Elegant and approachable now, with the structure to reward years of cellaring.