Wine Adovocate 92
"The deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Pessimist delivers a gregarious nose of ripe black cherries, blackberries and blueberries plus notions of Chinese five spice, mocha and raspberries. Full-bodied, voluptuous, soft and plush, it packs in the fruit cake and exotic spices, finishing with great length."

Wine Enthusiast 91
“This wine from the Daou brothers starts with dense aromas of blackberry, gravelly soil, wood ash and violets. The mouthfeel is plush in soft tannins, offering flavors of black currant, asphalt, purple flowers and marjoram. Editors Choice”-WE

"In a pursuit to create delicious wine inspired by varieties that flourish in Paso Robles, The Pessimist is a blend of Syrah, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel and Tannat. Sourced and crafted by the DAOU Vineyards winemaking team, this wine demonstrates classic old world style with the fruit-forward characteristics of California."-Winemaker's Notes

"In the golden, oak-studded hills of Paso Robles' fabled west side, not far from William Randolph Hearst's magnificent castle, there is a man with a Homeric vision. His name is Daniel Daou and he is devoting his life and every imaginable resource to creating, first and foremost, a Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals the very best in the world.
Gracefully perched atop a stunning promontory at 2,200 feet, the DAOU Spanish Colonial style winery is embraced by a tangible serenity. Hawks wheel and bank while the all-day sun caresses close planted rows of lush, emerald green vines. The 100 percent calcareous soil makes no sound as it passes out nourishment and only a gentle breeze flows up through the Templeton Gap from the Pacific. The quiet is bewitching; you want to lay down roots here, just as the four-year-old vines have done. But the sense of peace belies the serious industry at work on this 100 acre estate. No effort is spared to create the luscious varietals and blends that flow from this limited production winery. This kind of synergy happens rarely: superlative climate and terroir, super intensive vineyard culture, and cutting edge viticultural practice. You're more likely to find it in Bordeaux than Central California. Coupled with the infectious passion and gracious, family style hospitality of the Daou brothers, Georges and Daniel, the result is pure magic. The kind of magic that comes in a bottle."-Winery Notes