Orin Swift Cellars 8 Years in the Desert Red Blend 2023
(California) - [DM 94] [JS 92] [WE 92] [WA 90]

2023 CALIFORNIA RED WINE
In general, taking breaks can help to reset expectations and reevaluate situations, and from 2008 to 2016, we had just that with Zinfandel. During that time, we focused on producing wines with other grape varietals, waiting for the day to come back to our gateway grape. 8 Years in the Desert is the culmination of our resurgent enthusiasm for Zinfandel, sourced from premier vineyards across California including Monte Rosso, Stefani Ranch and Barrelli Creek vineyards, just to name a few.

 WINEMAKER’S NOTES
The 2023 Eight Years in the Desert pours a dark mauve core with a red amethyst rim and aromatic notes of ripe blackberry and raspberry bramble. Further hints of chocolate covered espresso bean, black pepper and allspice emanate from the glass. The entry is dominated by black plum preserves and freshly baked mixed berry morning bun with an energetic yet concentrated mid-palate. Soft and textured tannins give way to a lifted finish with a touch of pluot and dried tarragon.

BLEND Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah

MATURATION 7 months in French Oak, 35% New

ALC/VOL 15.6%

Ratings & Reviews

94 Points - Decanter Magazine:
"With super slow maturation in 2023, Dave Phinney’s only concern was, “Will it get ripe?” given the extended hang time of the grapes in this even-keeled, cool vintage. A blend of 74% Zinfandel, 24% Petite Sirah, and 2% Syrah, aged for seven months in 35% new oak. This wine is super fresh and fragrant, with red, black, and blue fruit aromatics, lifted by elegant coriander spice. Medium-bodied with impressive intensity, it is balanced by soaring acid tension, with nuances of sagebrush and cool wet slate adding depth. One of the most structured and fresh expressions of this wine I’ve ever tasted—vibrant, layered, and built to evolve." - Jonathan Cristaldi (Feb 2025)

92 Points - James Suckling:
"A luscious, chocolatey and full-bodied red that's potently fruity, spicy and broad in feel, with a good bite of tannin for structure. Dark chocolate, blackberry jam, wood smoke, black pepper flavors and a touch of vanilla bean. Drink now." (May 2025)

92 Points & Editor's Choice - Wine Enthusiast:
"The aromas of the wine are deep, with blackberry, cassis, spiced vanilla, cocoa, and notes of dried potpourri on the nose; the flavors on the palate are ripe Boysenberry, cola, and clove interwoven with mineral, silky tannins. Aerate and enjoy pair with grilled lamb sausage."  - Tonya Pitts (Dec 2025)

90 Points - Wine Advocate:
Sourced primarily from Dry Creek, the 2023 Red Blend 8 Years in the Desert includes 74% Zinfandel, 24% Petite Sirah and 2% Syrah, all aged seven months in 35% new oak. Attractive floral and stone-fruit nuances accent ripe raspberries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate boasts a supple, silky feel that gives way to some tarry notes and a slight green-peppercorn astringency on the finish." - Joe Czerwinski (Jun 2025)