Introduction
Orin Swift Eight Years in the Desert 2020 is a powerful and enigmatic red blend that defies conventional winemaking, embodying the adventurous and artistic spirit of its creator, Dave Phinney. While not tied to a single appellation, this wine draws its unique character from a carefully selected blend of old-vine Zinfandel (typically the dominant grape) sourced from diverse vineyards across California’s prime growing regions, often including Petite Sirah and Syrah to add layers of depth and complexity. The evocative name “Eight Years in the Desert” refers to the period during which Orin Swift did not produce a Zinfandel-based wine, making its reintroduction a significant event. Orin Swift is renowned for its bold, expressive wines and distinctive, art-forward labels, and this particular offering reflects their commitment to crafting concentrated, impactful reds that push boundaries. The 2020 vintage, despite its challenges in California, yielded grapes with intense ripeness and character, positioning this blend as a rich, layered, and authentic testament to Orin Swift’s bold vision and California’s diverse viticultural prowess.
Character Description
Orin Swift Eight Years in the Desert 2020 displays a brilliant, inky purple-black hue, almost opaque. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of dense black cherry, ripe blackberry jam, and dark plum, elegantly interwoven with opulent notes of cracked black pepper, sweet pipe tobacco, vanilla bean, roasted coffee, and a hint of dusty cocoa. 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 slow-smoked BBQ ribs, grilled prime cuts of beef (like ribeye or tri-tip), hearty lamb shanks, and rich game meats such as venison stew. Its powerful structure and dark fruit also make it an ideal accompaniment to aged hard cheeses (like aged cheddar or Gouda), dishes with bold spices, and even dark chocolate desserts with berry components. 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 sources grapes from premier vineyards across California, focusing on varieties like Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah. 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 commitment to producing wines that are both impactful and memorable. Orin Swift’s unwavering 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.
