Orin Swift ‘Papillon’ Red Wine 2021, Napa Valley, California

“It’s rare to find a wine from the Napa Valley composed on all 5 Bordeaux-style varietals, but for many years, that has been Papillon’s focus. The raw strength and prestige of Cabernet Sauvignon buttressed by the opulence of merlot, the spiciness of Cabernet Franc, the depth of Malbec and the sheer unctuousness of Petit Verdot come together seamlessly. The 2021 papillon is sourced from Napa Valley growers we’ve worked with for decades – Stagecoach Vineyard, Indian Joe, Morisoli Vineyard and even a touch from the Monte Rosso Vineyard over on Moon Mountain. The 2021 Papillon fills the glass with an unmistakable dark crimson, a flash of neon purple and a ruby rim. Tears move glacially and the wine opens with aromatics of boysenberry jam, violets, chocolate covered blueberry and hints of Cara Cara rind, graphite and brioche. The entry and mid-palate are bright throughout with considerable weight – tones of cassis, blackberry and baking spices flourish. Enveloping texture, chalky, drying tannins and an enduring finish bows out the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot. Aged 13 months in French oak, 44% new.