The history of Orin Swift Cellars began during a “study” abroad trip to Florence in 1995, where founder David Swift Phinney was introduced to wine, how it was made, and got hooked. After graduation, he landed a job as a temporary harvest worker at Robert Mondavi Winery in 1997, which led to his decision to build his own company. In 1998, Phinney founded Orin Swift Cellars, so designated to honor his father’s middle name and his mother’s maiden name.

With two tons of zinfandel and not much else, he spent the next decade making wine for others, as well as for himself, and grew the company into a multinational brand that now includes 300 acres of vineyards in the Southwest of France. This international ambition has led to projects in Spain, Italy, Corsica, Argentina and other locations around the globe.

Most well-known for his iconic The Prisoner, a Zinfandel-based red blend he has since sold to Huneeus Vintners, Orin Swift Cellars produces several other sought-after domestic wines, each with an innovative label or bottle design. These include the cabernet-based Mercury Head, the Bordeaux blend Papillon, and a Chardonnay-based white blend, Machete. His project in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of Southwest France, Department 66, focuses on old-vine Grenache under the D-66 label.

Composed of all five Bordeaux varieties, Papillon is Orin Swift’s Cabernet based red wine. The goal was to make a stand-alone wine that incorporates all the majesty of Cabernet Sauvignon with the subtleties of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and the power of Petit Verdot and Malbec. The label is a photograph taken by a good friend and fellow winemaker, Greg Gorman.

Introducing the exquisite 2021 Orin Swift Papillon, a red wine that exemplifies the artistry and mastery of winemaking in the heart of California's Napa Valley. This remarkable bottle showcases the expertise of Orin Swift, a renowned producer known for crafting exceptional wines that captivate the senses.

In the glass, the 2021 Orin Swift Papillon reveals a deep, alluring red color that hints at the intensity and complexity that awaits. With a proprietary blend of varietals, this wine showcases the harmonious fusion of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, resulting in a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

As you bring the glass to your nose, a symphony of bold cherry and cassis aromas greets you, enchanting your senses with its intensity and allure. The bouquet is rich and expressive, offering a tantalizing preview of the sensory journey that awaits.

On the palate, the 2021 Orin Swift Papillon reveals its full-bodied nature, delivering a velvety texture that caresses the palate with finesse. The wine exhibits a remarkable balance between power and elegance, with each sip inviting you to explore its intricate layers of flavors. Notes of blackberry, plum, and dark chocolate intertwine seamlessly, creating a tapestry of taste that lingers on the tongue.

The finish is long and almost zesty, leaving a lasting impression that urges you to savor each moment. This wine is the epitome of sophistication, with its well-integrated tannins and impeccable structure showcasing the skillful winemaking techniques employed by Orin Swift.

The 2021 Orin Swift Papillon is a true masterpiece, a testament to the artistry and dedication of its producer. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a gourmet meal, this wine promises an unforgettable experience that will leave wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike yearning for more. Indulge in the allure of the 2021 Orin Swift Papillon and elevate your wine-drinking experience to new heights.