DAMAGED LABEL: DAOU Vineyards Bodyguard Red Blend 2022 (750 ml)

The 2022 Bodyguard is the next masterwork by Winemaker Daniel Daou. This wine opens with a vibrant, fragrant nose of blueberry cobbler, cherry pipe tobacco, dark chocolate and espresso laced with hints of sandalwood, licorice and pencil lead. Underlying layers reveal notes of mulberry and truffle, all accented by suggestions of black currant, kirsch, bay leaf and vanilla. The palate is silky and graceful, unfolding with lavish flavors of cherry pie, plum, blackberry jam and raspberry—all converging seamlessly with earthy notes of cigar box, leather, black olive and crushed sage. Ripe, supple tannins provide structure, volume and a velvety mouthfeel, resulting in a powerful, elegant finish with suggestions of cherry, cranberry, plum and crushed stone. While approachable now, the 2020 Bodyguard is a wine that will reward patient cellaring for years to come.