When we think of premier wine destinations in America, Napa Valley and Sonoma often come to mind. However, there are other regions throughout California (and the country) that also produce beautiful wines. Paso Robles, which is situated between Los Angeles and San Francisco, is a wine region that is known for its bold red wines. It is also the home of DAOU Vineyards, a winery with fine wines and a unique story.
Hoping to fulfill their vision of producing exquisite Cabernet Sauvignons thirteen years ago, brothers Georges and Daniel Daou “broke ground” on the winery, but it wasn’t an easy journey. In 1975, as young children, the Daou family left their home in Lebanon during the country’s devastating civil war and were then raised in France. It was there, living in one the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, that their passion for wine was sparked. Later, the brothers made their move to America, attending university in California. Daniel and Georges eventually settled in Paso Robles, California where they discovered the breathtaking DAOU Mountain.
DAOU Mountain stands 2,200 feet above sea level in the Adelaida District, though it wasn’t always referred to as DAOU Mountain. Daniel and Georges acquired the land, which was originally called Hoffman Mountain Ranch. The vineyard and winery there produced noteworthy wines and was widely considered the birthplace of modern winemaking in Paso Robles.
It is said that a great wine starts with an extraordinary terroir; DAOU mountain is an excellent example of that. It is created from calcareous clay, which is famously found in Saint-Émilion and the right bank of Bordeaux. The mountain is also cooled by the Pacific Ocean, which is less than 15 miles away. Of course this all appealed to the brothers, thanks to their history and love of French wines. Out of this perfect environment, DAOU has produced rich Bordeaux-style wines in Paso Robles, including its flagship Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Soul of a Lion. 
Perseverance, passion and courage, Soul of a Lion speaks to everything Georges and Daniel’s father, Joseph Daou, instilled in them growing up. The name not only embodies the strong qualities of their father, it really is an exceptional cabernet. The 2017 vintage has smooth tannins, a beautiful bouquet of plums and dark cherries, and is well balanced with strong character. It pairs beautifully with pizzas, grilled steaks, lamb, and savory pastas.
Cabernets aren’t the only dynamic wines DAOU produces though. They also produce supple Chardonnays, floral, French-inspired rosés, and refreshing Sauvignons Blancs. Wine lovers visiting the DAOU winery and vineyards will enjoy tastings, culinary pairings and breathtaking scenery. They have also incorporated social distancing hikes and virtual tastings to continue engaging with wine enthusiasts during the global pandemic. Maybe we can’t get to France right now, but DAOU wines can transport you there. Visit their website to discover their tasting offerings.
