2013 Orin Swift Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Mercury Head

The 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 18 months in 50% new French oak, is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Mercury Head. Certainly one of the more intriguing labels, with a real Mercury-head dime embedded in the glass bottle, this 4,500-case cuvée comes from blocks in Taplin, Morisoli and Atlas Peak vineyards. The final blend is a selection of their best barrels, bottled and aged another six months prior to release. This is a killer Cabernet Sauvignon, full-bodied and multilayered, with stunning blueberry and blackberry fruit, floral acacia notes, a hint of brioche and subtle toasty oak followed by a massive, full-bodied wine with sweet tannin and beautifully integrated acidity, alcohol and wood. This profound Cabernet Sauvignon should drink well now and for 25+ years. Dave Phinney may well be 2015's winemaker of the year for this wine taster. (RP) Review Date: October 2015