The ’90s have been accredited as the golden decade for California wines, and understandably so, with an explosion of high-end producers setting their sights on creating some of the world’s finest vintages from 1990 to 1997 within the tiny Californian region of Napa Valley, which accounts for only 0.4 percent of the world’s total wines.

It was in fact also the same decade that California wine producer Orin Swift Cellars set up shop in 1998. The story goes that in 1995, founder David Swift Phinney took a friend up on an offer to visit Florence, Italy, in what was supposed to be a semester studying, which instead turned into a lifelong love affair with wine. Fast forward to the present day, and Phinney has created a multinational brand known for its eye-catching labels.

For Californian winemakers, the bottles’ labels certainly play on the unique counter culture of the region, including nostalgic collages of pop culture, homage to B-flicks and the general angst of Generation X – those born in the ’60s, including Phinney, who could go on to found the label of Orin Swift. But of course, an eye-catching sleeve only goes so far. A customer could realise it’s just another gimmick as soon as he opens a bottle. However, this is certainly not the case with Orin Swift wines, as what lays inside its bottles is just as unique and beautiful as their casings.

Mannequin 2017 – California Chardonnay

Said to be inspired by a Nicki Minaj lyric, the Mannequin chardonnay was our favourite of the night thanks to its uncommon notes of spices and butter, and pineapple finish. Aged for eight months, this white wine is slightly sweet and has medium-low acidity. Certainly a wine of character, its long finish makes it an enjoyable wine to stick to for an entire night.

Abstract 2017 – California Red Wine

Left to age for over a ten-month period, the Abstract combines the rich tastes of grenache, syrah and petite sirah grapes. Delighting with aromas of milk chocolate and black tea, the texture of the wine is truly as impressive as its smell, thanks to the subtle hints of blackberry and mocha, which result in a smooth and fruity blend. With a 15.7 percent alcohol content, we recommend savouring this wine slowly, for a long finish.

Mercury Head 2016 Napa Valley Cabernet Savignon

 

The Mercury Head is acclaimed as the best Cabernet Sauvignon from Orin Swift, with the grapes sourced from premier vineyards such as Stagecoach Vineyard atop Atlas Peak. The mouthfeel of this particular bottle is slightly more complex and drier than the other wines, but still remains just as smooth. Its bold notes of dark fruits such as blackberries and boysenberries make it the most seductive of the wines on offer.

 

For more information and to purchase Orin Swift wines one may visit www.watsonswine.com

Text: Bailey Atkinson