Nose
Dark and intensely hued, the 2020 vintage explodes from the glass with aromas of violets, lilac, cigar box and black fruit.
Palate
On the palate, it is full bodied and highly textural, accompanied by mineral undertones that reflect the Mountain’s coveted calcareous clay soils. Exuding both structure and elegance, this wine finishes with silky, velvety tannins that allow it to show beautifully in its youth while delivering huge aging potential.
Growing Conditions
The 2020 growing season began on a dry note, followed by much-needed rains in April that replenished the soils and set the stage for healthy canopy growth. Conditions through mid-summer remained mild and steady, with the exception of a rare August thunderstorm. Subsequent heat waves and distant wildfires put DAOU Mountain to the test heading into harvest, yet despite the challenges the 2020 vintage produced some of the most complex wines yet.
Aging
15 months in 80% new French oak