“Outside of a few wines in Napa and Washington, it’s the finest expression of Cabernet Franc from the New World.” – Jeb Dunnuck

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A pursuit of perfection from DAOU’s Patrimony Estate, once again! 97-99 points from Wine Advocate that’s “offering incredible concentration” as they say in the glowing writeup. The Vinous 96+ further reinforces things, adding it “turns all pleasure dials to the max…“

It’s hard to believe we sold over 500 cases of Patrimony in three years.

Or maybe it’s not hard to believe if you’re one of the many Ops who come back for more. EVERY. TIME.

Very few California reds can compete with DAOU’s flagship Franc.

We recently had the opportunity to taste the entire lineup, and though it was like splitting hairs, we all preferred this Cabernet Franc that we had never experienced before. Where was it all those years?

They make very little of it. Much less than the Cabernet Sauvignon and the Caves des Lions. Add to that a recent decision to soon go MAILING LIST ONLY with all Patrimony wines, which makes this a rare sight indeed. With one exception to that rule - a few key accounts still have access, but with no guarantees, we came to that somber realization that this is our one and done shot at this SPECTACULAR BEAUTY.

You really can’t imagine a more complex, layered, intense, yet graceful Cabernet Franc. We couldn’t, and still can’t, even after experiencing it. Like a lucid dream, the floral bouquet, the blue bramble, the unreal umami, and the never-ending finish still haunt us. There are no words, no superlatives will do this wine justice; all we can say is, prepare to be moved, lifted higher.

97-99 Points – Wine Advocate “The 2021 Cabernet Franc was made from free-run juice and is maturing for 30 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple in color, the nose explodes with generous aromas of cassis, fried thyme and sage, lavender, soy sauce and aniseed with streaks of bell pepper. The full-bodied palate is noticeably light on its feet, offering incredible concentration for its powdery, seamless frame, and it finishes with alluring herbal tones. Supple yet serious even at this youthful stage, its herbal character is effortlessly integrated with its generous fruit, and it is shaping up to be a gorgeous Cabernet Franc.”

96+ Points – Vinous “Dark as night and with a purple tinge, the 2021 Cabernet Franc Patrimony entrances the taster with a gorgeous bouquet that blends peppery herbs and orals with crushed blackberries, foreign spice and cedar shavings. This is pure class, elegant and cool-toned with perfectly ripe red and black fruits supported by vibrant acidity. Confectionary spices contrast with savory herbal tones toward the close. A peppery concentration is repeated through the finish, as this fades with edgy tannins and a dark chocolate resonance. The 2021 turns all pleasure dials to the max while maintaining exquisite balance. The 2021 is simply spellbinding. Drink 2025-2034.”