Orin Swift Cellars Papillon 2009 Front Label
Orin Swift Cellars Papillon 2009 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

For the past five years we have been making a Cabernet Sauvignon blend called Papillon. The fruit originates from some of Napa Valley's most celebrated appellations including Howell Mountain, Saint Helena, Rutherford, and Oakville. Choice vineyards such as Taplin and Morisoli were once again chosen because of their unique fingerprints. Marked with intensity and grip, we aim to showcase a wine that's as fitting as the label photographed by the renowned Greg Gorman, and hand model Vince Tofanelli - a 3rd generation grape grower and friend. Papillon takes flight upon release with aging potential up to 8 years

The wine has a very dense garnet hue with a slight stain of cardinal on the rim. Aromas of plum and cassis are built around soft French oak and cedar box nuances. The entry is intense, yet elegant with loads of boysenberry and dark fruit flavors. Well integrated tannin chains provide for a long, soft finish.

78% Cabernet Sauvignon; 14% Merlot; 4% Cabernet Franc; 2% Malbec; 2% Petit Verdot

Orin Swift Cellars

Orin Swift Cellars

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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.

JCZPAPILLON_2009 Item# 117254