Daou Soul of a Lion Paso Robles 2018

96 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$150 list] A creamy black-cherry aroma is balanced by toasted herbs and roasted coffee bean on the nose of this impressive bottling. There's a firm structure to the dense palate, and the flavors are expertly cohesive, combining herbs and savory meat with blueberry and blackberry. Alcohol 14.7%. (Oct 2021)"

94-96+ points Jeb Dunnuck: "Checking in as 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot that’s still resting in new barrels, the 2018 Soul Of A Lion has a dark, dense bouquet of crème de cassis, chocolate, violets, tobacco, and cedar pencil. This gives way to a beautiful, powerful, full-bodied wine that has building yet attractive tannins, a rounded texture, good freshness, and a great finish. (Sep 2020)"

94-96 points Erin Brooks (Wine Advocate): "The 2018 Soul Of A Lion is a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petit Verdot. It is still in barrel and is expected to age 22 months in 100% new French oak. It has a deep ruby-purple color and lovely scents of dried herbs and flowers, charcuterie, coffee beans, potpourri and broody spices with a core of cassis. The medium to full-bodied palate features fresh, bright, perfumed fruits with mineral nuance in a pixelated frame, and it finishes long and nuanced. (Oct 2020)"

95 points James Suckling: "Aromas of blackberries and lavender follow through to a full body with tight, firm tannins that are long and linear. Lots of pretty fruit as well. Some pine-needle and forest-floor undertones. A cooler and more refined Daou. Drinkable now, but better in 2023. (8/24/21)"