2018 Orin Swift Palermo Cabernet Sauvignon

the winery Orin Swift Cellars

Orin Swift was founded in 1998 by Dave Phinney, who discovered his passion for wine after studying in Florence. His first job at Robert Mondavi laid the foundation for a career in which he combined power and refinement in modern Napa Valley blends. Orin Swift is known for characterful, concentrated wines with striking labels and a distinctive style. Since 2016, the winery has been part of the Gallo family, allowing Phinney to focus entirely on vineyard and cellar work. Palermo is his signature Cabernet Sauvignon: accessible, rich, and with a clear Napa signature.

region and terroir of Napa Valley

The grapes for Palermo come from several high-altitude vineyards in Napa Valley. The climate is Mediterranean with warm days and cool nights, resulting in slow, balanced ripening. The soils consist of a mix of volcanic rock, clay, and gravel, which contributes to the wine's depth and structure. The combination of sun, altitude, and varied terroirs produces grapes with intense aromas and a firm yet refined tannin structure.

the wine 2018 Orin Swift Cabernet Sauvignon Palermo

The 2018 Palermo is a pure Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley with a deep red color and an immediately inviting aromatic profile. The wine received 93 points from The Wine Advocate , which describes it as "medium to deep garnet-purple in color, with scents of kirsch, Black Forest cake, and warm cassis, hints of dried mint, dark chocolate, and rose hip tea, plus a waft of unsmoked cigars." The wine is medium to full-bodied and displays layers of ripe black fruit, framed by velvety tannins and a lively freshness. The finish is long, elegant, and aromatic.

vinification and style

The grapes were hand-harvested and carefully selected. After a gentle pressing, fermentation took place in stainless steel at a controlled temperature. The wine was then aged in French oak barrels, some of which were new, to soften the structure and frame the fruit with subtle vanilla and mocha aromas. Dave Phinney strives for balance with Palermo: a Cabernet with the power and concentration of Napa, yet with refined texture and fresh tension.

color, smell and taste

The 2018 Palermo has a deep ruby red color with purple hues. The nose offers expressive notes of cherry liqueur, cassis, and chocolate, complemented by spicy hints of mint, rosehip, and a touch of cigar. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and layered, with ripe black fruit and subtle woody notes. The texture is silky, the acidity fresh, and the tannins finely polished. The finish is long and aromatic, with notes of cocoa and blueberry that linger elegantly.

storage potential

The 2018 Orin Swift Palermo is ready to drink now, but can still develop beautifully until 2035. With age, the wine will reveal more notes of leather, tobacco, and spice, while the fruit becomes softer and more complex. Its velvety texture and fresh balance make it suitable for both drinking young and cellaring.

Would you like to order Orin Swift wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address: https://www.grandcruwijnen.nl/bezoek-ons . You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others.

Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers. https://www.grandcruwijnen.nl/sommy

recommended wine and food pairings

• Sirloin steak with a spicy jus and roasted garlic. The wine's texture and fruit perfectly complement the juicy meat.
• Beef stew with rosemary and dark chocolate. The soft tannins and dark fruit enhance the depth of the sauce.
• Rack of lamb with thyme, sage, and grilled vegetables. The spiciness of the dish complements the mint and cigar notes in the wine beautifully.
• Mushroom and Parmesan risotto. The creamy texture and earthy flavors complement the wine's velvety character.
• Roasted eggplant with balsamic vinegar and aged cheese. The wine maintains its balance with the savory, slightly sweet notes of the dish.