Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted by the celebrated winemaker Dave Phinney, Orin Swift Papillon is a bold Bordeaux-style red blend that exemplifies Napa Valley's winemaking excellence. Composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, this wine is a luxurious symphony of flavors. With an alluring dark crimson color, it greets the senses with aromas of boysenberry, violets, and hints of chocolate-covered blueberry. The palate reveals layers of cassis, blackberry, and baking spices, supported by velvety tannins and a long, nuanced finish. Aged in French oak for over a year, this full-bodied red delivers profound complexity and balance, making it perfect for pairing with red meat, rich pasta, or fine cheeses. A must-have for enthusiasts of bold, expressive wines, Orin Swift Papillon is truly a masterpiece in every bottle.
Process & Profile
Orin Swift Papillon is a bold, Bordeaux-inspired blend that unites five iconic grape varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. This masterpiece undergoes meticulous aging for 13–16 months in French oak barrels, with up to 52% new oak, imparting structure and complexity. Pouring with a dark crimson core, this wine is a visual and aromatic spectacle, showcasing the raw strength of Cabernet Sauvignon complemented by the richness of Merlot, spiciness of Cabernet Franc, depth of Malbec, and unctuousness of Petit Verdot.Tasting Notes
The wine opens with an aromatic bouquet of ripe cassis, blackberry, boysenberry jam, and floral violets, underscored by hints of graphite and toasted brioche. The palate is plush and full-bodied, offering layers of blackcurrant, cassis, and mixed berry pie interwoven with baking spices and chocolate-covered blueberries. Silky, yet structured, its chalky, drying tannins create a velvety mouthfeel with a long, lingering finish touched by sweet oak, vanilla, and earthy undertones.What Makes It Special
What sets Orin Swift Papillon apart is its meticulous blending of all five Bordeaux varietals, a rarity that creates unparalleled depth and harmony. Combined with the vision of winemaker Dave Phinney and sourced from Napa Valley's premier vineyards, the wine represents a seamless balance of power and elegance. Its aging process in high-quality French oak enhances its complexity, making it a critically acclaimed choice, earning accolades such as 93+ points from Robert Parker's *Wine Advocate*.How to Enjoy
- Serving Suggestions: Decant for one hour to unlock its full aromatic and flavor potential. Serve at cellar temperature in large Bordeaux glasses to enhance the tasting experience.
- Food Pairings: This bold red pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like grilled ribeye, lamb chops, or roasted vegetables. For cheese lovers, try it with aged cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese.
- Occasions: Ideal for celebratory dinners, gifting, or simply savoring after a long day. Its robust profile makes it a perfect conversation piece for wine enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Orin Swift Papillon Red Blend?
The Orin Swift Papillon is a bold, Bordeaux-style red blend crafted by renowned winemaker Dave Phinney. It combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, resulting in a rich and complex wine characterized by dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and balanced structure.
What does the Orin Swift Papillon taste like?
This wine offers a multi-layered flavor profile with prominent notes of blackberry, cassis, boysenberry, and plum. Secondary flavors include hints of chocolate, baking spices, leather, and minerals. The finish is long, with drying tannins and lingering earthy tones. Its full body and velvety texture make it a memorable experience.
What foods pair well with the Orin Swift Papillon?
The Papillon pairs beautifully with dishes such as red meats, roasted poultry, pork, pasta with rich sauces, and hearty salads. Its bold flavors and tannic structure complement savory and umami-rich dishes exceptionally well.
How is the Orin Swift Papillon aged?
The wine is aged for 13 months in French oak barrels, of which a significant percentage is new oak. This aging process enhances the wine's complexity by imparting subtle notes of oak, spice, and vanilla while allowing the varietals to blend seamlessly.
What makes Orin Swift wines unique?
Orin Swift wines are known for their powerful, expressive profiles and unconventional approach to winemaking. Founded by Dave Phinney, the brand emphasizes depth, experimentation, and bold craftsmanship. The visually striking labels are an artistic extension of the wines themselves, designed to provoke thought and conversation.
What is the alcohol content of the Orin Swift Papillon?
The alcohol content of the Papillon varies slightly by vintage but typically hovers around 15.5%, reflecting its full-bodied nature and intensity.
What are the visual characteristics of the Orin Swift Papillon?
The wine exhibits a striking deep crimson color with flashes of neon purple and a ruby rim. The glacially slow tears on the glass hint at its rich texture and high-quality structure.
Is the Orin Swift Papillon available for shipment?
Yes, the Orin Swift Papillon is available for shipping, often with options for purchasing multiple bottles at discounted shipping rates. Some retailers even guarantee same-day shipping depending on the time of order.
How highly is the Orin Swift Papillon rated?
The Papillon consistently receives high ratings from wine critics, often earning scores in the 90+ range. Its 2021 vintage, for instance, received a 93-point rating from Wine Advocate, recognizing its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
What sizes and vintages are available for Orin Swift Papillon?
The Papillon is available in standard 750ml bottles, with vintages such as 2021 and 2022 being prominent offerings. It is a tightly allocated wine, so availability can vary depending on the retailer and demand.
Can I visit Orin Swift Cellars for a tasting?
Yes, the Orin Swift tasting room is located in a historic bank building in downtown St. Helena, California. It offers four distinct tasting experiences, making it a unique and immersive destination for wine enthusiasts exploring Napa Valley.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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