This was the second sample from Orin Swift during the Capstone California Wine Certification. The previous one was the Abstract and I didn't love it, mostly due to very high and borderline aggressive alcohol (over 15%).
This one isn't much different in this regard with 15.6%. I don't think I've had such a strong wine that wasn't fortified before.
Notes:
The colour is deep ruby.
The nose is pronounced, it opens with some tomato leaves, sweet beetroot juice (a childhood thing for me) soon replaced by a raspberry preserve. There are red fruits here, red plums, cherries, even blood oranges. Plus plenty of licorice and a black olives note later on.
Mouth is full bodied, with medium minus acidity (could do with more to lift it's heavy weight), medium plus grippy tannins and high alcohol. Some red plums, some herbs and spices but nothing stood out to me. After a pleasant, relatively complex nose, it rather lacks depth and isn't particularly long. Mayne more aging would add some more port-like notes?
So that's it. Having tried 2 wines from this producer, I think I'm not a fan. Especially not at these prices (£64). I do admire the marketing though. The labels are cool with promotional material that is fun to look at and memorable.
by Manonthemon
1 Comment
Swift is a very divisive producer. VERY high sugar and abv – i’ve never been a fan and ive probably had a dozen tastes throughout the years.