Orin Swift 8 Years in the Desert 2021

Region and Vineyards

This wine is deeply connected to California's rich Zinfandel tradition, particularly from vineyards known for producing high-quality Zinfandel. The warm climate and varied terroirs of regions such as Sonoma and Napa are ideal for growing these sun-loving grapes. Orin Swift carefully selects vineyard sites that allow Zinfandel to fully express its potential, ensuring perfect ripeness.

The complexity of the wine is enhanced by the addition of Petite Sirah and Syrah, which are sourced from equally renowned sites. These complementary varieties thrive in California’s diverse terroir, adding depth and structure to the blend.

Winemaking

Zinfandel forms the backbone of 8 Years in the Desert, with Petite Sirah and Syrah playing supporting roles. This vintage was aged for six months in French oak, of which 32% were new barrels. This use of French oak imparts a subtle spice and toasty vanilla quality, rounding out the natural fruit intensity of the wine.

With an alcohol content of 15.6%, the wine boasts richness and power, balanced by the winemaker's skilled approach to acidity and tannin management. This blend showcases Orin Swift's mastery in creating full-bodied wines with a polished, seamless texture.

Tasting Notes

• Color: In the glass, this vintage reveals a near-opaque dark crimson, with purple edges.
• Aroma: The bouquet is complex, offering layers of ripe blueberry, black plum, and wild raspberry, underpinned by hints of espresso, sweet oak, and a touch of cedar.
• Palate: The entry is velvety, enveloping the palate with flavors of blackberry jam, reduced strawberry, and a hint of rhubarb. A lively acidity balances the rich fruit, while the finish is smooth, marked by ripe tannins, notes of pluot, and dark chocolate.

Did You Know?

Orin Swift's 8 Years in the Desert pays tribute to David Phinney’s journey with Zinfandel, a grape he famously worked with for years before creating this signature wine. After a period of hiatus from producing Zinfandel, the return with 8 Years in the Desert marks a significant milestone in Phinney's winemaking career, hence the wine’s evocative name.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Beef Bourguignon: The robust flavors of the wine complement the rich, savory notes of slow-cooked beef and red wine sauce.
• Rack of Lamb with Rosemary: The wine’s ripe berry flavors and tannic structure balance the earthy, herbal tones of lamb.
• Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: The smoky, umami-rich mushrooms pair beautifully with the dark fruit and spice elements of the wine.
• Aged Gouda: The caramelized, nutty flavors of aged gouda are enhanced by the wine’s fruitiness and oak-driven complexity.

History of Orin Swift Estate

Founded by Dave Phinney, Orin Swift began with just two tons of Zinfandel grapes and a vision to create wines that push the boundaries of traditional winemaking. After a brief stint studying political science and traveling to Italy, Phinney found his true calling in wine. By 1998, he launched Orin Swift Cellars, combining his father’s middle name, Orin, and his mother’s maiden name, Swift, to honor his family.

Phinney's reputation grew rapidly, especially after the release of The Prisoner, a bold red blend that garnered significant attention. Although Phinney sold The Prisoner label in 2010, he continued to innovate and produce new wines under Orin Swift, focusing on unconventional blends and artistic storytelling through his labels. In 2016, the Gallo family purchased Orin Swift, but Phinney remains at the helm of the brand’s creative and winemaking direction.

Region and Vineyards

Orin Swift sources grapes from a diverse range of vineyards across California, focusing heavily on Napa Valley while also exploring other regions like Sonoma County, Mendocino, Lake County, Lodi, and the Sierra Foothills.

• Napa Valley: At the heart of Orin Swift’s identity is Napa Valley, a world-renowned wine-growing region. Napa’s Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny days and cool nights allows for optimal ripening of grapes, particularly Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The valley’s soils are diverse, ranging from alluvial fans to volcanic rock, which contribute to the rich complexity of Orin Swift’s wines.

• Sonoma County: For wines that demand a more restrained, balanced profile, Phinney turns to Sonoma County. The Russian River Valley and other subregions within Sonoma provide a cooler climate, perfect for growing varieties like Syrah and Grenache, which need to retain acidity while developing lush fruit flavors.

• Mendocino and Lake County: In the rugged and cooler climates of Mendocino and Lake County, grapes benefit from higher altitudes and cooler breezes. These regions contribute vibrant acidity and intense concentration to the fruit, making them ideal for Orin Swift’s signature powerful blends. The Zinfandel and Petite Sirah sourced from these areas help create some of the brand’s most robust wines.

• Lodi and Sierra Foothills: Regions like Lodi and the Sierra Foothills are known for their warm Mediterranean climate and rich, volcanic soils. These areas are particularly important for Orin Swift’s Zinfandel-based wines, including the critically acclaimed 8 Years in the Desert. The warm climate allows for ripe, juicy fruit flavors while still maintaining structure and balance.

Wine Range

Orin Swift’s portfolio is diverse, offering a range of full-bodied, intense wines. Each wine tells a story, both through its name and the artful design of its label.

• Papillon: A classic Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, with powerful flavors of dark fruit, tobacco, and spice.
• Machete: Known for its dramatic label and equally bold flavors, this Petite Sirah-based blend delivers layers of blackberry, black currant, and mocha.
• 8 Years in the Desert: A Zinfandel-driven blend that marks Dave Phinney’s return to Zinfandel after an eight-year hiatus. This wine is rich, ripe, and bursting with spice.
• Abstract: A blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, this wine offers a decadent mix of ripe fruit, chocolate, and licorice with silky tannins.

Did you know?

The name Orin Swift pays homage to Phinney's family heritage, combining his father’s middle name and mother’s maiden name. This personal connection underscores the importance of family and legacy in Phinney’s winemaking journey. Additionally, the winery’s artistic labels often feature surreal and provocative imagery, each designed to evoke an emotional response and mirror the bold nature of the wine inside.