Poured as a dark garnet, the wine opens with primary aromas of ripe cassis and blackberry. Supporting hints of dark chocolate, toasted oak and cedar support the typical Orin Swift Cabernet Sauvignon nose. The entry is flooding with notes of dark fruits and a mid-palate bolstered with redcurrant, bay leaf and a reemergence of cassis. The wine closes with well-developed tannins and a striking minerality despite the supple and soft finish.
93 Wine Enthusiast A luscious, dark-berry center is surrounded by plush tannins and a full body in this broad, rather tannic but soothing wine. Dark chocolate, cocoa and baked blueberries give a lot of mouthfilling satisfaction as you sip.
90 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Traditionally, Palermo included wine that didn't make it into Mercury Head or Papillon, but winemaker Dave Phinney now buys some fruit specifically targeted for this bottling. The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Palermo—a blend of estate-grown and purchased fruit aged 11 months in 34% new oak—includes small proportions of Merlot and Malbec. Offering up cherries, cassis and slightly earthy scents, plus hints of cinnamon and nutmeg on the nose, it's full-bodied and nicely balanced, with its firmness matched by softness. It's just a nice drink overall. Best After 2023
