The Crown Jewel of the Darioush estate, Darius II captures the diverse and exquisite beauty within each vintage.
From London’s Victoria and Albert Museum’s collection of Middle Eastern arts, the 2019 Darius II label features a striking example of a luxury textile from 16th century Bursa, considered the epicenter of the silk-weaving industry at the time. Fabrics of this caliber were destined to become diplomatic gifts for dignitaries, ambassadors, and religious figures from the Far East to Europe.
This specific work depicts an ogival design outlined by trails of blossoms woven in precious metallic threads. The lattice pattern is punctuated with a beautiful pomegranate motif— a treasury of symbolism that transcends time and place, cultures, and religions. Emblematic of fertility and everlasting life due to its abundance of seeds, the pomegranate is an icon of unity, and in ancient Persia it symbolized the soul’s immortality and the perfection of nature.
Brambly fruit flavors of black cherry and cassis are infused with toasted thyme, bay leaf and bittersweet cocoa for an exceptionally captivating mouthfeel. Silky smooth tannins frame the palate which reveals further notes of licorice, espresso crema and Tahitian vanilla. Chief contributions from our Sage Vineyard estate atop Mount Veeder gives this wine its exceptional depth and stature while maintaining its trademark savory complexity, polish, and composure.
"This deep purple-hued effort offers a great nose of crème de cassis, scorched earth, charcoal, and leafy herbs, with some background chocolaty oak. Rich, full-bodied, and concentrated on the palate, it’s beautifully balanced, has ripe, present tannins, and one heck of a great finish.”
Jeb Dunnuck | Rated 97
