Over the past decade or so, Paso Robles has become an undeniable force in the market.  We think it’s because the best and most-visible producers have smartly leaned into what makes them special as opposed to trying to imitate a style of wine like Bordeaux or the Napa Valley in a climactic region that just won’t allow it.  As a result, ‘Paso Cab’ has become a ‘thing,’ a big thing; a style of wine no one else can reproduce at prices that remain distinctly un-Napa like.  One of the prime movers of the ‘Bring it on Paso’ movement is DAOU.  Started by the two Daou brothers from Portugal; they knew from the start exactly how to handle wine grapes from a torrid growing region and produce a style of wine that does, indeed, while offering a deep bow to the best wines of Bordeaux, don’t try to recreate their style in Paso Robles.  In the process, they’ve created a reputation for their style we’ve not seen before from this up-and-coming wine growing region.  While we’re impressed with all of the DAOU wines, the one that really turned our heads was their homage to the great wines of Saint Emilion- an absolutely succulent blend based not on Cab Sauv but Cabernet Franc instead.  Blended with a third high-quality, ultra-plush, Merlot, the wine DAOU calls ‘Seventeen Forty’ captures the essence of what makes Saint Emilion special, only with the volume turned up to ELEVEN (one louder)!  We loved the wine for its unabashedly ebullient flavors that hit on mulberries, blueberries, Kirsch and mint chocolate or mocha on a bold of purple-black silk palate that is as smooth as it is long. Bold, confident and really fun to drink, it’s burnished to a fine, obsidian finish.  To be honest, there are a lot of wines in Saint Emilion that would love to offer this much panache and style.  If you’re expecting finesse and understatement, though, this might not be your wine; but if you want a gentle giant with Bordeaux-like sensibilities to go with your peppery, smoky steak hot off the grill, this would be a magnificent choice!  And, really, given what a similar wine from the Napa Valley (or even Saint Emilion) would cost, this seems downright reasonable!   Congrats, DAOU.  You’re on to something.  Ask us about other DAOU wines at great prices as well.    Wine Advocate: The 2019 Seventeen Forty Reserve is a blend of 66% Cabernet Franc and 34% Merlot. Made from free-run juice, it was aged for 20 months in 70% new French oak. Deep ruby-purple, it has aromas of wild berries, tar and bitter chocolate with savory and floral undertones. The palate is supple and approachable, with plush layers of Morello cherry and blueberry fruit, detailed spicy accents and a long, layered finish. 94 points Wine Enthusiast: Savory aromas of toasted walnuts, charred meat and dark berries make for a very savory impression on the nose of this blend of 51% Cabernet Franc and 49% Merlot. The tannins are expertly polished and land with a smooth coating, embracing flavors of roasted fruit, cocoa, fig and roasted almonds, with a delicate hit of acidity popping on the finish. 94 points