Orin Swift Machete California 2014

Dave Phinney is one of the most influential and innovative winemakers in California. He helped generate excitement for tasty, affordable red blends with distinctive labels when he created Zinfandel-based The Prisoner in the 2000 vintage, growing the brand to 85,000 cases before selling it in 2010. Phinney then turned his focus to his Orin Swift collection; this time it’s the Petite Sirah–based Machete rocketing to success. Phinney has a knack for mixing and matching vineyards and grapes. Here, Petite Sirah grapes get ripe enough to soften their tannins, while creating a backbone to blend with fruitier Grenache and Syrah.

Tasting Note

Generous and expressive, big and brawny, this offers a mouthful of tannins but also brims with flavors and aromas, including Earl Grey tea, dark chocolate, dried violet and toasted gingerbread. Rich notes of plum and black cherry are balanced by forest floor and earth accents, which linger on the long finish. Petite Sirah, Syrah and Grenache. Drink now through 2030.—MaryAnn Worobiec