The brilliant 2012 Seventeen Forty Reserve is 70% Cabernet Franc and 30% Merlot. Exhibiting high class aromas of blackcurrants, coffee bean, crushed flowers and hints of chocolate, it flows onto the palate with full-bodied richness, building tannin and a terrific finish. In addition to all of its fruit and texture, this beauty stays lively, fresh and elegant, and shows the quality these Bordeaux blends can hit here in Paso Robles. The Daou brothers continue to focus on Bordeaux varieties from their estate that’s located high up off of Peachy Canyon Road. Across the board, these wines show fantastic purity of fruit, excellent concentration, and rich, textured personalities that never seem heavy or over-the-top. These are highly recommended and show the quality that’s possible from Bordeaux varieties in Paso Robles. Tel. (805) 226-5460; www.daouvineyards.com