One of many definitions of the word, abstract, is a summary of something larger, encompassing the crucial elements, making it easy to comprehend on the fly. Abstract, in its own way, is an abstract of our winemaking mission and the ethos of Orin Swift. It will always have our signature drinkability, comprised of fruit from quality vineyards across California and creates conversations - be it about the wine or the label. For those new to Orin Swift, Abstract is a beloved starting point on a journey with us.
The 2022 Abstract pours a dark purple core with a neon, ruby rim. The nose is quintessential Abstract but with a broodier twist-notes of ripe black plum, cacao, black pepper, cedar, dried porcini, forest floor musk and sweet oak. The entry is coating and flooding with hints of blueberry preserves, tarragon, balsamic glaze and anise. Bright and lifting through the palate, the finish offers an umami note akin to eggplant yakitori.
Blend: Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah
94 The Wine Independent The 2022 Abstract, a blend of Grenache, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Zinfandel, is deep garnet-purple in color. It comes tearing out of the glass with energetic notes of wild blueberries, fresh black raspberries, and licorice with wafts of black pepper and moss-covered stones. The full-bodied palate has loads of red berry accents lifting the decadent black and blue fruit layers, with lightly chewy tannins and bags of freshness, finishing on a lingering anise note.
92 Decanter A proprietary red blend of Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, and Zinfandel aged eight months in 31% new oak. Orin Swift has opened a new, lovely tasting lounge in the town of St. Helena, CA and is worth a visit for those coming to the Napa Valley. Dave Phinney, the founder of Orin Swift, calls all the picks and continues working and honing these wines in the cellar. Rich black cherry, toffee, and caramel spices lead to a full-bodied wine with red berry fruit and chocolatey, robust, chewy tannins. The long fruit-driven finish offers ample brown spices and toasty cedarwood.
91 Wine Spectator Potent and dense, with brooding flavors of blackberry and cherry accented by bitter chocolate, cracked pepper and savory meat tones as this builds tannins on the finish. Grenache, Syrah and Petit Sirah. Best after 2025.
