Orin Swift Cellars Abstract 2009 Front Label
Orin Swift Cellars Abstract 2009 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

#45 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2011

Abstract is a blend of Grenache, Petite Sirah, and Syrah primarily from hillside vineyards in Sonoma County. The aromas are all berry and black fruits, with neatly integrated caramelized oak. A huge entry coats the mouth. The wine has tons of weight on the mid-palate and is dense with layers of ripe cherry and strawberries. The finish is laced with long soft tannins that go on and on.

Abstract is inspired by the wines Dave Phinney has been drinking in the Pyrénées-Orientales over the past two years. In this mountainous outpost of France's Roussillon region, Dave started making wine at his own small winery. He wanted to make something from similar varietals (back here at home) that one can open and enjoy every day.

Professional Ratings

  • 92 Wine Spectator
    Offers wonderful complexity, with peppery wild berry, raspberry, spice, hot brick and sage flavors. Full-bodied, ending with a supple mix of subtle flavors. Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah. Drink now through 2018. 8,000 cases made.
Orin Swift Cellars
View all products

You're no longer following this brand

You'll no longer receive alerts for new arrivals and brand updates

Image for  content section
View all products
Image for Napa Valley Red Wine content section
View all products

Undoubtedly proving its merit over and over, Napa Valley is a now a leading force in the world of prestigious red wine regions. Though Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Napa Valley, other red varieties certainly thrive here. Important but often overlooked include Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties well-regarded on their own as well as for their blending capacities. Very old vine Zinfandel represents an important historical stronghold for the region and Pinot noir is produced in the cooler southern parts, close to the San Pablo Bay.

Perfectly situated running north to south, the valley acts as a corridor, pulling cool, moist air up from the San Pablo Bay in the evenings during the hot days of the growing season, which leads to even and slow grape ripening. Furthermore the valley claims over 100 soil variations including layers of volcanic, gravel, sand and silt—a combination excellent for world-class red wine production.

DDE113704_2009 Item# 113704