Orin Swift Mercury Head Napa Cabernet 2021 Rated 94-96WA

Wine Advocate Review
Rated 94-96
Winemaker Dave Phinney expects to bottle a bit more than 6,000 cases of the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Mercury Head, what he calls a "typical volume" for it. Sourced from a couple of well-known valley floor sites and the Stagecoach Vineyard (sometimes a bit of Monte Rosso Vineyard fruit makes it in the blend as well) and aged 13 months in 58% new oak, the nose offers up hints of menthol and cedar over a base of ripe cassis and cherries. It's full-bodied and velvety in the mouth, while a hint of dark chocolate creeps in on the lengthy finish. Drink 2025-2040.

Wine Tasting Notes
Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon represents Orin Swift's flagship wine, embodying their core belief that exceptional grapes are essential for crafting outstanding wine. Sourced from premier vineyards in Napa Valley, this wine serves as a tribute to these vineyards, our philosophy, and the remarkable potential of Napa Valley. The Liberty Dime adorning each bottle holds special significance, symbolizing Dave's cherished childhood coin and most treasured possession.

A deep, nearly opaque garnet hue fills the glass, accompanied by slow, graceful tears. The initial bouquet offers enticing aromas of luscious cassis, charred ribeye, sandalwood, and freshly sawn oak - further exploration reveals even more. The first taste unfolds a sophisticated tapestry of flavors, including blackberry, black plum, fennel, licorice, and dark chocolate. Subsequent sips unveil a harmonious, multi-layered wine with a profound cassis essence. The wine concludes with a sweet, lingering finish, complemented by velvety, slightly chalky tannins.

Alcohol 15.5%