2023 Orin Swift Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA (750ml)

WINEMAKER’S NOTES:

The opaque core of the 2023 Mercury Head flashes with a neon crimson rim. Mesmerizing in the glass, the wine opens with notes of blackcurrant, Amarena cherry, California chapparal and an elegant kiss of oak. The palate is effusive with hints of ripe blue fruits, blood orange, dark chocolate and rhubarbrich and layered as the wine continues to open. Fully integrated tannins are paired with an elegant and nuanced close of blackberry preserves and licorice.

TASTING NOTES:

A super-concentrated, trim and age-worthy red that’s structured and deep, with black cherry flavors on an elegant texture. Very focused, showing supple tannins and slightly restrained fruit, graphite, cocoa, black olive and tobacco leaf flavors. Full-bodied but still balanced.

– James Suckling, 96 pts.