Patrimony (Daou) Caves des Lions Adelaida District 2019

99 points Erin Brooks (Wine Advocate): "The 2019 Caves des Lions is a blend of free-run Cabernet Sauvignon (52%) and Cabernet Franc (48%) matured for 22 months in 100% new French oak and bottled in December of 2021. Opaque ruby in color, it has layered aromas of blackcurrant, lilac, graphite, fried savory herbs and game meats. The full-bodied palate is powerful yet balanced, its restrained, mineral-laced fruit complemented by mouthwatering acidity, and it boasts a long, graceful finish. Harmonious and latent, it will demand plenty of patience as it unwinds in bottle—the Patrimony wines tend to age at a glacial pace. Drink: 2024-2044. (Dec 2022)"

99 points The Tasting Panel

96-98 points Jeb Dunnuck: "More cassis, crushed stone, graphite, and chocolate emerge from the 2019 Caves Des Lions, and it's beautifully textured, with full-bodied richness, building yet ripe, polished tannins, a gorgeous mid-palate, and one heck of a great finish. For all its richness and depth, it stays lively, fresh, and weightless, and it’s a beautiful wine. (9/30/21)"

97 points James Suckling: "Deep and fragrant nose with a lift of currant leaf freshness to the cassis, nori, Spanish chocolate, roasted jalapeño pepper, sumptuous blackberries and some cigar box. Full-bodied and compact on the palate with firm but ultra-fine tannins here that are powerful but not grippy. Long and juicy. 52% cabernet sauvignon and 48% cabernet franc. Drink or hold. (10/10/22)"

97 points Decanter: "Pronounced aromatic intensity on a nose of dark fruits including blackberries, plus sweet wood, cigar box and toast. An almost impossible delicacy to this wine which was birthed from two powerful grapes and showcases the expert handling in the winery. Notes of coffee bean and dark chocolate round out the finish. Exceptionally well-rounded and showing all the structural elements for quality that one would expect from a wine at this level. Drinking Window: 2023-2043. (Feb 2023)"

Producer notes: "52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Cabernet Franc. A stunning marriage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. One cannot but be taken by the über-dark color of this wine. Yet when the first sip is taken, an unexpected profile emerges from the glass with elegance and freshness accompanied by a wealth of minerality. The nose explodes with aromas of cassis, cured meats, coffee, licorice, dark chocolate and spice. This full-bodied and flawlessly balanced wine will keep you thinking for a long time with a finish that does not stop. Alcohol 14.9%."