Introduction
Orin Swift Abstract 2021 is a compelling and artistic red blend that embodies the innovative and audacious spirit of its creator, Dave Phinney. This wine is a testament to the art of blending, typically featuring a dominant proportion of Grenache, Petite Sirah, and Syrah, sourced from various premium vineyards across California’s diverse growing regions. Rather than focusing on a single appellation, Abstract’s strength lies in the masterful combination of these varietals to create a wine of profound depth and layered complexity. Orin Swift is renowned for its bold, expressive wines and iconic, thought-provoking labels, and “Abstract” in its name perfectly captures the winemaker’s freedom to combine distinct elements into a harmonious whole. The 2021 vintage in California generally provided excellent conditions for ripening, yielding grapes with superb concentration and vibrant character, positioning this blend as a rich, multi-dimensional, and authentic testament to Orin Swift’s bold vision and California’s diverse viticultural prowess.
Character Description
Orin Swift Abstract 2021 displays a brilliant, inky dark ruby-purple hue, almost opaque. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of dense black cherry, ripe blackberry, and dark plum, elegantly interwoven with opulent notes of cracked black pepper, sweet tobacco, vanilla bean, roasted coffee, and a distinct hint of graphite or dark chocolate. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and wonderfully rich, velvety texture, with concentrated dark fruit and savory flavors that mirror the nose. It’s supported by chewy, yet beautifully integrated tannins that provide superb backbone and a long, expansive finish, balanced by a vibrant acidity that ensures freshness and remarkable precision. The finish is exceptionally long, nuanced, and remarkably harmonious, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit intensity, savory spice, and the profound depth characteristic of a truly powerful and expressive California red blend.
Perfect Pairings
This bold and expressive California red blend is an exceptional partner for a wide range of robust and flavorful dishes, perfectly complementing its rich fruit and savory notes. It pairs beautifully with grilled prime cuts of beef (like ribeye or tri-tip), slow-braised lamb shanks, hearty wild game stews, and gourmet burgers with caramelized onions and aged cheese. Its powerful structure and dark fruit also make it an ideal accompaniment to aged hard cheeses (such as aged Gouda or Parmesan), dishes with bold, smoky flavors, and even dark chocolate desserts with berry coulis. The wine’s profound complexity and impactful presence make it a fantastic choice for a celebratory feast, a distinguished dinner, or for those who appreciate a full-bodied and compelling red wine that delivers immense character and pleasure. Decanting for at least an hour is highly recommended to allow its full expression.
About the Winery
Orin Swift Cellars, founded by the visionary winemaker Dave Phinney, is a groundbreaking winery known for its distinctive approach to winemaking and its iconic, art-driven labels. While not confined to a single appellation, Orin Swift meticulously sources grapes from premier vineyards across California, focusing on varieties like Grenache, Petite Sirah, and Syrah for Abstract, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon for other cuvées. Phinney’s philosophy is rooted in a desire to craft bold, expressive, and terroir-driven wines that break free from traditional conventions. He is celebrated for his innovative blending techniques, his ability to coax immense concentration and character from diverse fruit sources, and his unwavering commitment to producing wines that are both impactful and memorable. Orin Swift’s dedication to pushing boundaries and their artistic flair have solidified their position as a unique and highly sought-after brand in the world of American winemaking.
