Orin Swift Cellars Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Front Label
Orin Swift Cellars Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

"Mercury Head" is a moniker coined from Winged Liberty Head dimes that were struck from 1916-1945 and also serves as the wine's "front label." As a kid, winemaker Dave Phinney collected them and years later received one with some change, which prompted him to use as a unique packaging detail.

Saturated ruby red in complexion, the wine exudes elegance, purity and richness. Teeming with profound aromas of black raspberries, currants, cassis, cedar and rose petals, it invites the senses. The entry is lush and pure which provides shape to an ideal symmetry of dark berries, cocoa, plums, and black cherries. The flavors transition into a savory and bright mouthfeel, finishing with absolute elegance and softness.

Professional Ratings

  • 93
    A showy version Mercury Head, this is highlighted by aromatic candied apple and spice, joined by flavors of red fruit, red licorice, cherry and plum. Maintains its elegant posture and finish. Drink now through 2026. 2,000 cases made.
Orin Swift Cellars

Orin Swift Cellars

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One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.

Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.

RAB133118_2009 Item# 133118