Orin Swift 8 Years in the Desert Red 2022

California

Wine Advocate 92 points! (on the 2021 vintage)

Orin Swift 8 Years in the Desert is a gorgeous California red wine gem from gifted winemaker, Dave Phinney. Owner of Orin Swift Cellars, Dave Phinney has come a long way since beginning his winemaking career with 2 tons of purchased Zinfandel grapes just a year out of college in 1998! Following big successes with wines such as Papillon, The Prisoner, and Abstract, Phinney returned to his first love, Zinfandel, with the release of 8 Years in the Desert.

At first glance, the 2022 Eight Years in the Desert looks to be almost black, but after closer inspection, a dark crimson starts to shine through with a tinge of purple on the rim. The nose is rife with notes of ripe blueberry, black plum, wild raspberry, espresso bean, sweet oak and a hint of crème de menthe and cedar. The entry is akin to walking through a tunnel of velvet walls with blackberry jam, reduced strawberry and a touch of rhubarb. Bright acidity throughout the palate, the wine closes with round, ripe tannins, fresh pluot and dark chocolate. Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah. Aged for 6 months in French Oak, 32% New 15.6% Alc./Vol.

"There are almost 50,000 cases of the 2021 Zinfandel Blend 8 Years in the Desert, a mix of Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah and Grenache. Mixed raspberries, blackberries and blueberries appear on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, ripe and supple, yet with just enough softly dusty tannins, a velvety texture and no suggestion of raisined fruit. With its amiable nature and fresh, lingering finish, it should win lots of fans. Drink 2023-2030.”—Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate, 92 points! (on the 2021 vintage)

Enjoy Orin Swift 8 Years in the Desert with steak, roast pork, grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, grilled vegetables and aged cheeses.