Introduction
Orin Swift Mannequin California Chardonnay 2022 is a bold and captivating expression of California Chardonnay, a wine that truly embodies the artistic and innovative spirit of winemaker Dave Phinney. “Mannequin” speaks to the wine’s statuesque presence and the carefully curated blend of Chardonnay from diverse, premium vineyards across California’s best regions. Orin Swift Cellars is celebrated for its evocative labels and a winemaking philosophy that prioritizes richness, texture, and a profound sensory impact. The 2022 vintage in California was notable for its balanced ripeness and generous fruit, contributing to a Chardonnay that is both opulent and intensely flavorful, perfectly aligning with Orin Swift’s signature style of creating wines that defy convention and deliver immense pleasure.
Character Description
The Orin Swift Mannequin California Chardonnay 2022 displays a brilliant, deep golden hue, hinting at its richness. It offers an intensely aromatic and opulent bouquet of ripe stone fruits—peaches, apricots, and nectarines—elegantly interwoven with complex notes of toasted hazelnut, vanilla bean, crème brûlée, and a subtle hint of citrus zest and wet stone. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and exceptionally creamy texture, with concentrated fruit and savory flavors that mirror the nose. It’s supported by a vibrant acidity that provides balance and a long, expansive finish, showcasing layers of richness and a delightful minerality. The finish is persistent, luxurious, and exceptionally smooth, leaving a lingering impression of sweet oak, ripe fruit, and the profound depth characteristic of Orin Swift’s winemaking.
Perfect Pairings
This rich and expressive California Chardonnay is an exceptional partner for a wide range of flavorful and indulgent dishes. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, pan-seared scallops with butter sauce, and creamy pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or carbonara. Its opulent texture and nutty notes also make it an ideal accompaniment to lobster or crab, rich seafood risottos, and a variety of medium-aged, hard cheeses such as Gruyère or aged Gouda. The wine’s bold structure and layered flavors make it a fantastic choice for a celebratory meal, a sophisticated gathering, or for those who appreciate a full-bodied and compelling white wine. Serving it slightly chilled will allow its complex aromatics to shine.
About the Winery
Orin Swift Cellars was founded in 1998 by Dave Phinney, a visionary winemaker renowned for his artistic approach to blending and his iconic, often provocative, wine labels. Starting with minimal resources, Phinney quickly garnered a cult following for his bold, expressive wines that frequently blend grapes from various high-quality vineyards across California. His winemaking philosophy centers on maximizing flavor, texture, and impact, always aiming for a powerful and memorable drinking experience. While now part of the E. & J. Gallo Winery portfolio, Dave Phinney continues to lead the creative direction, ensuring that Orin Swift remains a benchmark for compelling, modern Californian winemaking. Mannequin Chardonnay is a true representation of their commitment to crafting wines that are both highly enjoyable and distinctively artistic.
