2020 Orin Swift Palermo Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

The Orin Swift Palermo Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley is a rich, modern and stylish red that captures the essence of Napa fruit through the distinctive lens of Dave Phinney’s bold winemaking. Phinney, the founder of Orin Swift, has built his reputation on wines that are immediately approachable yet layered with complexity, and Palermo sits as the flagship Cabernet in his collection. Crafted from fruit sourced across top Napa Valley subregions – including Rutherford, Oakville and St. Helena – it is a wine that blends power, polish and drinkability.

In the glass it shows deep crimson with purple edges. The bouquet is expressive and opulent, offering ripe blackberry, cassis and dark cherry intertwined with mocha, graphite, cedar and a touch of dried herbs. On the palate it is full-bodied and velvety, with generous layers of black fruits, dark chocolate and espresso framed by supple tannins and well-integrated oak. A streak of freshness carries through, balancing the richness, while the finish is long, plush and fruit-driven with hints of spice and earth.

Food pairings suit its depth and lush texture: prime rib with rosemary, braised short ribs, venison, or mushroom and truffle risotto. It also pairs beautifully with firm cheeses like aged cheddar or pecorino. With 10 to 12 years of cellaring potential, it develops added complexity, bringing tobacco, leather and savoury spice alongside its vibrant fruit core.