The 'Machete' by Orin Swift was first produced in 2009. A compelling blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah and Grenache, this inky hued wine was aged 10 months in French oak (40% new) prior to bottling. Weighing in at a whopping 15.7% alcohol and needing more than an hour to express itself, as it is aromatically reticent at first. As this opens it gradually yields deep aromas reminiscent of rose petals, tar, pipe tobacco, coffee grounds and blueberry compote. There are rich flavors of black plum, creosote, black olive, and spicebox. This wine is tannic and intense right now, with lovely viscosity and mouthfeel. Despite the highly alcohol content, there is a seamless quality to this impressive release. This would benefit from another year or two in bottle to fully integrate. It represents another stellar Machete bottling by Orin Swift, following up the highly impressive 2013 bottling.(Best 2017-2025) - April, 2016 (OB)
Wine Specifications
- Report Date: April, 2016
- Producer: Orin Swift
- Vintage: 2014
- Drinking Window: 2017-2025
- Estimated Value: $48
- Country: United States
- Region: California
- Appellation: California
- Importer: N/A