Orin Swift 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Palermo, Napa Valley

David Swift Phinney founded Orin Swift Cellars in 1998. His wines are all very unique expressions in the art of winemaking with artistic labels that complete the package. Located in St. Helena in heart of Napa Valley he sources grapes from outstanding growers throughout the Valley and beyond.

This Wizard of the Red Blend switches things up here with Palermo that's 100% Napa Cab. The bountiful 2018 vintage allowed more versatility resulting in a quintessential Napa Cabernet Sauvignon that comprises fruit from all over the valley—from the floor to the higher elevations and everything in between. Fruit was sourced from many Napa Valley vineyards including Sun Lake, Heitz, Cypress and Stagecoach. The wine aged for 12 months in French Oak, 39% new.

It brings a dark crimson color with a blue band while the nose presents immediate aromas of boysenberry, currants, graphite, cedar, fir ash and vanilla. Seamless on the entry with resounding energy, the mid-palate features lush blackberry and bing cherry as well as a hint of sweet red licorice. Long, complex tannins punctuate the finish with an elegant and tapering note of black tea.