Introduction
Orin Swift Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon (MAGNUM) 2019 is a monumental and highly coveted expression of Napa Valley Cabernet, embodying the uncompromising vision and artistic flair of winemaker Dave Phinney, presented in a large format ideal for aging and grand occasions. This flagship wine is sourced from meticulously selected, top-tier vineyards across Napa Valley’s most esteemed appellations, known for producing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes of exceptional quality, concentration, and structure. The distinctive Mercury dime affixed to each bottle is a signature of Orin Swift, symbolizing a tangible piece of history and a commitment to meticulous craftsmanship. The “Magnum” format (1.5 liters) is particularly favored for age-worthy wines, as the larger volume of wine relative to the cork allows for slower, more graceful evolution. The 2019 vintage in Napa Valley was widely celebrated as superb, yielding grapes with remarkable ripeness, concentration, and balanced acidity, positioning this wine as a profound, age-worthy, and authentic testament to Orin Swift’s bold philosophy and Napa Valley’s unparalleled pedigree for world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.
Character Description
Orin Swift Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon(MAGNUM) 2019 displays a brilliant, inky black-purple hue, virtually opaque. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of dense black currant, ripe cassis, and blackberry preserves, elegantly interwoven with opulent notes of cedar, graphite, dark chocolate, sweet pipe tobacco, a hint of dried sage, and subtle roasted espresso bean. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and wonderfully rich, powerful texture, with concentrated dark fruit and savory flavors that mirror the nose. It’s supported by firm, yet exquisitely velvety 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 profound dark fruit intensity, complex savory notes, and the powerful, age-worthy depth characteristic of a truly epic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The Magnum format contributes to its extended youthfulness and enhances the slow development of complex tertiary aromas.
Perfect Pairings
This monumental and expressive Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is an exceptional partner for a wide range of robust and intensely flavored dishes, perfectly complementing its profound richness and structure. It pairs beautifully with grilled prime cuts of red meat (such as Wagyu ribeye, dry-aged porterhouse, or lamb chops), slow-braised beef short ribs, venison with berry reduction, and hearty beef bourguignon. Its powerful tannins and dark fruit also make it an ideal accompaniment to aged, hard cheeses (like aged Gouda, strong cheddar, or Comté), truffle-infused dishes, and rich, savory charcuterie. The wine’s commanding presence and layered complexity make it a fantastic choice for a grand celebratory feast, a distinguished dinner, or for those who appreciate a truly full-throttle and age-worthy red wine that develops beautifully over time. Given its Magnum format, decanting for at least two to three hours 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 for all its wines, “Mercury Head” showcases Phinney’s mastery of Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley’s finest sites. His philosophy is rooted in a desire to craft bold, expressive, and terroir-driven wines that break free from traditional conventions, focusing on meticulous vineyard selection and innovative winemaking techniques. Phinney is celebrated for 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.
