What wines does Dave Phinney make?

Answered by Amado Berg

Dave Phinney is a renowned winemaker and the mastermind behind several exceptional labels. His portfolio includes Orin Swift, The Prisoner, Locations, and D-66. Each of these labels offers a unique and distinctive range of wines that showcase Phinney's talent and passion for winemaking.

1. Orin Swift:
Orin Swift is perhaps one of Phinney's most well-known and iconic wine labels. The brand was named after his father and has gained a loyal following over the years. Orin Swift wines are known for their bold and opulent style, with rich flavors and complex profiles. Phinney sources grapes from top vineyards across California and crafts wines that are full-bodied, luscious, and intense. Some of the standout wines from Orin Swift include “The Prisoner,” “Papillon,” and “Machete.”

2. The Prisoner:
“The Prisoner” is not only a standout wine from the Orin Swift portfolio but also a label in its own right. This red blend has become a cult favorite among wine enthusiasts. It is a rich and decadent wine that blends Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and other varietals to create a wine that is bold, fruit-forward, and velvety on the palate. The Prisoner is a true expression of Phinney's winemaking style and his ability to create wines that are both approachable and complex.

3. Locations:
Locations is a unique project by Dave Phinney that focuses on producing wines from different regions around the world. The concept behind Locations is to create wines that capture the essence of a specific region without being bound by traditional wine regulations. Phinney sources grapes from renowned vineyards in countries such as France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, and the United States, to name a few. Each wine is labeled with a bold letter representing the country of origin, such as “F” for France or “I” for Italy. Locations wines offer a diverse range of flavors and styles, showcasing the best of each region.

4. D-66:
D-66 is a label that showcases Phinney's passion for Grenache, a varietal that he believes is underappreciated. Phinney sources Grenache grapes from old vine vineyards in the Maury region of France's Roussillon region. The resulting wines are rich, concentrated, and full of ripe fruit flavors. D-66 wines are a testament to Phinney's dedication to crafting exceptional wines that highlight the unique characteristics of the Grenache grape.

Dave Phinney is a gifted winemaker who has created a diverse and exceptional portfolio of wines. From the bold and opulent wines of Orin Swift and The Prisoner to the unique and terroir-driven wines of Locations and D-66, Phinney's wines are a true reflection of his talent, creativity, and passion for winemaking.