Orin Swift Mannequin Chardonnay 2021

Region and Vineyards

California's vast landscape offers extraordinary diversity for Chardonnay cultivation, and Mannequin 2021 is the result of careful sourcing from multiple prestigious appellations. Fruit was selected from Russian River Valley, Atlas Peak, Santa Maria Valley, and additional high-quality sites across the state. Each contributes distinctive elements—from bright citrus and floral notes to creamy textures and underlying minerality.

The coastal influence in regions like Santa Maria and Russian River brings natural acidity and floral aromatics, while warmer inland areas provide ripeness and tropical intensity. Some lots exhibit linear, mineral-driven profiles; others are generous, rich, and fruit-forward. Through meticulous blending, these contrasting expressions are united into a Chardonnay that reflects the complexity and bounty of California terroir. Mannequin is, quite literally, a sculpted Chardonnay mosaic, piece by piece.

Winemaking

Composed entirely of Chardonnay, Mannequin 2021 was vinified with an emphasis on both richness and precision. Each lot was vinified separately and underwent sur lie aging for eight months in French oak barrels, 23% new, which enhances texture, creaminess, and aromatic complexity.

Fermentation and maturation on fine lees contribute a silk-like quality, while a prominent spine of acidity maintains structure and energy. At 15.2% alcohol, the wine is unapologetically opulent but never heavy, thanks to its balance between ripeness, freshness, and subtle oak integration. The result is a Chardonnay that is simultaneously luxurious and bright.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Brilliant white-gold with flashes of chartreuse, striking in clarity and shine.
• Aroma: Opulent aromas of golden apple, jasmine, citrus zest, cream, and freshly baked brioche.
• Palate: Lush on entry, revealing honeydew melon and green apple layered with citrus cream. A vibrant acidity cuts through the richness, leading to a long, seamless finish with mineral lift and silk-like texture.

Did you know?

The name Mannequin reflects both the wine’s crafted precision and the winemaker’s desire to challenge convention. In a state known for stylistic extremes in Chardonnay—from lean to lavish—Orin Swift set out to create a balanced California Chardonnay that expresses regional diversity, stylistic confidence, and textural grace.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Lobster risotto with lemon zest and mascarpone: Elevates the wine’s richness and mirrors its creamy texture.
• Herb-roasted chicken with garlic confit: A classic, savory match that highlights both the fruit and minerality.
• Seared scallops with beurre blanc: Harmonizes with the wine’s silkiness and citrus notes.
• Comté or Délice de Bourgogne: Rich, creamy cheeses that echo the wine’s voluptuous character.

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.