Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the pinnacle of Napa Valley winemaking with Orin Swift Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon. This flagship wine captivates with its deep garnet core, exuding an aromatic bouquet of ripe cassis, blackberry, licorice, and sandalwood. Each sip unravels layers of complex flavors, including black cherry, dark chocolate, and fennel, seamlessly married with finely textured chalky tannins and a lingering, velvety finish. Aged for 13 months in French oak barrels, this luxurious Cabernet Sauvignon achieves an impressive balance of richness and elegance. Crafted from hand-selected vineyard lots, Mercury Head encapsulates the essence of exceptional Napa Valley terroir, making it a must-have for connoisseurs and collectors.
Process & Profile
Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted with an unwavering focus on quality. Sourced from select vineyards across Napa Valley, including the famed Stagecoach and Taplin vineyards, the wine reflects the essence of its terroir. Aged for 13 months in French oak—58% of which is new—this wine develops profound character and structure. The result is a bold, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with a distinct 15.5% alcohol content. The vintage commits to a deep garnet hue and layers of flavor that thrill the palate.Tasting Notes
Mercury Head opens with an aromatic bouquet of ripe cassis, blackberries, and fresh oak. Lingering notes of sandalwood, lavender, and baking spices add depth to the sensory experience. On the palate, expect a symphony of dark chocolate, espresso, fennel, and rich plum. Balanced by chalky tannins and hints of Herbs de Provence, the finish is long, velvety, and immensely satisfying.What Makes It Special
- Flagship Excellence: Mercury Head is Orin Swift's flagship wine, epitomizing the brand's dedication to premium winemaking.
- Symbol of Quality: Each bottle features a Liberty Head nickel, symbolizing founder Dave Phinney's childhood collection and his commitment to crafting the best wine possible.
- Exceptional Reviews: Consistently awarded high scores by critics, the 2021 vintage earned 95 points from Wine Advocate, celebrated for its opulent yet balanced profile.
How to Enjoy
- Pairing Suggestions: This bold red pairs beautifully with grilled meats, venison, and hearty dishes like lamb kofta or braised short ribs. For an indulgent pairing, try it with dark chocolate desserts or aged Gouda.
- Optimal Serving: Decant for at least 30 minutes to allow the wine to breathe and fully unlock its nuanced flavors. Serve at 60–65°F in a large Bordeaux-style glass for the best experience.
- Aging Potential: With its robust tannins and complex profile, Mercury Head ages gracefully for up to a decade, making it a perfect candidate for collectors.
Conclusion
Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon is more than just wine—it's a statement of excellence and a testament to Napa Valley's world-class reputation. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a budding enthusiast, this wine promises a memorable experience with every sip.Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon?
Mercury Head is a flagship Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon crafted by Orin Swift Cellars. It is celebrated for its exceptional quality, sourced from top-tier vineyards like Stagecoach, Morisoli, and Taplin. Known for its full-bodied structure and complex flavors, it represents a benchmark in Napa Valley winemaking.
Why is there a dime on the Mercury Head bottle?
The Liberty Head dime featured on each bottle symbolizes winemaker Dave Phinney's favorite childhood coin, blending his personal passion with the craftsmanship of this exceptional wine.
What are the tasting notes of Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine is renowned for its rich and layered profile. It offers aromas of cassis, blackcurrant, cedar, and sandalwood, paired with flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate, espresso, and licorice. The palate is full-bodied with balanced tannins, leading to a long and satisfying finish.
How is Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon aged?
Mercury Head is aged in French oak barrels, with a significant portion being new oak. For example, the 2021 vintage underwent 13 months of maturation in 58% new French oak, while the 2022 vintage followed a similar meticulous process, ensuring complexity and depth.
What is the alcohol content of Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) of Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon typically ranges from 15% to 15.5%, reflecting its bold and concentrated nature.
How does Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon compare to other Cabernet Sauvignons?
Mercury Head is a standout among Napa Valley Cabernets, praised for its intensity and complexity. It boasts layered flavors, robust tannins, and excellent aging potential, making it a top contender within its category.
What foods pair well with Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs beautifully with rich and hearty dishes, such as ribeye steak, braised short ribs, or mushroom risotto. Its high tannins and dark fruit profile complement fatty and umami-rich foods perfectly.
Can Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon be aged?
Yes, Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon is well-suited for aging. With its robust tannin structure and balanced acidity, it can develop more nuanced flavors over 7-10 years when stored in ideal conditions.
What makes Mercury Head unique among wines?
Mercury Head stands out due to its exceptional vineyard sourcing, meticulous winemaking by Dave Phinney, and its distinctive presentation featuring the Liberty Head dime. It embodies Napa Valley's rich terroir and winemaking artistry.
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