The 2022 Orin Swift Cabernet Sauvignon Mercury Head from Napa, California, is a robust and meticulously crafted wine. Produced by Orin Swift, this Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the quality and richness that the region is known for. With an alcohol content of 15.6%, it is a strong and full-bodied red wine.
This vintage is primarily sourced from the esteemed Stagecoach and Morisoli vineyards. According to Joe Czerwinski in Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, this wine skillfully combines "floral and gently leafy nuances with bold red fruit—cherries and redcurrants." Such a blend of flavors provides a layered complexity that appeals to both seasoned wine enthusiasts and those new to Napa Cabernets.
The wine is aged for 13 months in 60% new French oak, which adds to its complexity and depth. This aging process contributes to its expansive nature, allowing the wine to develop a broad and velvety finish. Czerwinski describes the finish as "slightly warming, long and velvety," which suggests a wine that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine an impressive score of 95, indicating its high quality and craftsmanship. This score reflects its balanced structure and the harmonious integration of its various elements, from the floral and fruit notes to the subtle oak influence.
In summary, the 2022 Orin Swift Cabernet Sauvignon Mercury Head is a noteworthy example of Napa Valley's winemaking prowess. It offers a rich, full-bodied experience with a blend of floral, leafy, and bold red fruit flavors, complemented by a velvety, long-lasting finish. This wine is particularly recommended for those who appreciate a strong, well-rounded Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of elegance.