Named
for his parents, Orin and Swift, Orin Swift Cellars
is the realization of a dream for Dave Phinney that
began while he was studying abroad at the University
of
Florence
in Florence,
Italy.
The
enterprise began with two tons of purchased Zinfandel
grapes and has continued to grow
over the years, adding Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon
Blanc to the
program,
as well as streamlining the Zinfandel into what is
now their flagship wine, "The Prisoner." It
is the centerpiece of a 20,000 case production portfolio
of wines, and ended up as #17 on the Wine Spectator Top 100 list of wines (for the 2005 vintage). In
addition, Phinney recently purchased 48 acres
of raw land in the hills above Oakville and hopes to
someday
build a winery there.
The
2007 vintage blends the lush berry flavors of Zinfandel
(50%), the power and concentration of Cabernet Sauvignon
(24%), the dark black fruit of Syrah (14%), the intensity
and
structure of Petite Sirah (9%), the flesh of Charbono
(2%), and a hint of Grenache (1%) - all combined
for a decadent wine with great complexity.
Aromas
of white pepper and black fruit fill the glass. Flavors
of wild blackberry, currant,
licorice, and blueberry lead the way in this fruit
forward wine. Plenty of spice and lingering tannins
on the finish. Well structured and, despite the fact
that it clocks in at 15.2% alcohol, it’s easy to drink
now, but will reward patience in the cellar.
This
wine is a great candidate for grilled meats of all kinds.
