8 Years in the Desert is a California Red Wine from Orin Swift Cellars in Saint Helena, California, USA. While this wine is classified as a Zinfandel by some stores, Orin Swift Cellars calls it a Zinfandel Blend.

Who made 8 Years in the Desert?

8 Years in the Desert is the first Zinfandel by Dave Phinney in 8 years! As many of you know, the first commercial wine I made for Orin Swift was Zinfandel.

What grape is the prisoner?

The Prisoner Red Blend is an unapologetically bold choice. Made with an innovative blend of Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Petite Sirah, Syrah and Charbono, the Prisoner features a diverse combination of dark grapes that creates a distinct quality and character unique to this wine.

Whats the story behind 8 Years in the Desert?

The name 8 Years in the Desert gets its name from a sentence Phinney recently served in varietal purgatory. After selling The Prisoner to Huneeus Vintners in 2008 (he later sold its parent company, Orin Swift Cellars, to E&J Gallo in 2016), he signed a non-compete, agreeing not to make Zinfandel for eight years.

Who makes Papillon wine?

Papillon Napa Valley red wine is produced by the Orin Swift winery and is a popular label from the California wine country. The vintage is sourced from the five varietals of the Napa Valley region, to make a unique blend of local wine.

Whats the Story with 8 Years in the Desert??? | Wine Review

What blend is Papillon wine?

Papillon is Orin Swift's Bordeaux-styled blend, with Cabernet Sauvignon complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc. Grapes are sourced from Napa Valley sub-appellations Oakville, Rutherford, and Howell Mountain, including top vineyards such as Stagecoach and Morisoli.

How much did Orin Swift sell the prisoner for?

Orin Swift's winemaker, Dave Phinney, made the first Prisoner wine in 2000 with a 385 case production. The wine soon had a cult following and Phinney sold the Zinfandel blend and a few other labels in 2010 to The Prisoner Wine Company for $40 million.

What wine does Dave Phinney make?

creating a rich, seductive, runaway best-selling wine called The Prisoner (an unusual blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Charbono)… eventually selling off his brands and assets to the tune of almost 300 million dollars!

Is Orin Swift a real person?

In our private dining room, The Captian's Table was filled with guests all waiting to know more. Hosted by Brittany Palmateer and Molly Schuster of Empire Merchants North, the evening was as much informative as it was delicious. The hosts explained to diners that Orin Swift the man simply just does not exist.

Why is the prisoner wine so good?

The Prisoner Wine Company is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of winemaking. Our partners in this vision are phenomenal growers throughout California's premier growing regions who are dedicated to cultivating unique grape varieties. Through them, we source fruit from more than 100 vineyards across the state.

What wine is similar to prisoner?

Affordable Alternative: Rushrose GSM – $24.99

Just like The Prisoner wines, it offers a full body and smooth taste.

Are prisoner wines good?

Overall Opinion. Overall, I really enjoyed The Prisoner wine. It's a smooth sipper on its own with a lovely aroma and a nice blend of flavors. Do let it age a while before opening, however.

Who makes machete wine?

Orin Swift - "Machete" California Red Blend - 2018 (750ml)

Does Dave Phinney own Orin Swift?

Winemaker Dave Phinney has a knack for making delicious, stylish wines with memorable labels and attractive price points but also for understanding wine's business side. Today, E. & J. Gallo announced that it has acquired Phinney's company, Orin Swift Cellars.

Did Orin Swift sell the prisoner?

Keen not to be shackled by its success, Phinney sold The Prisoner in 2008 to concentrate on his boutique brand, Orin Swift, named after his father's middle name and mother's maiden name.

Where is Orin Swift from?

Orin Swift's Mercury Head is a wine that people go crazy for. It is released in May and quickly sells out of wine shops often within a week's time. Some of the Cabernet Sauvignon for this wine is sourced from the well-regarded Morisoli Vineyard in Rutherford.

Does Orin Swift make a merlot?

For the first time ever, we have produced a wine dedicated to the Merlot varietal, showcasing its strength, nuance and complexity.

Who owns Savage & Cooke distillery?

The Savage & Cooke distillery, owned by Napa Valley winemaker Dave Phinney, is located on historic Mare Island and opened in 2018.

Who owns the prisoner winery?

Purchased by Constellation Brands in 2016 the brand now produces 85,000 cases a year and focuses on not just the famous Prisoner Red Blend but also on high end Cabernet Sauvignon and interesting varieties such as Charbono and Chenin Blanc.

What grapes are in Papillon wine?

Papillon is Orin Swift's Bordeaux Blend, with Cabernet Sauvignon complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc. Grapes are sourced from Napa Valleys sub-appellations Oakville, Rutherford, and Howell Mountain, including top vineyards such as Stagecoach and Morisoli.

Does Papillon escape in the movie?

Because a fall from the cliffs would mean certain death, Papillon bags coconuts together for a raft. During a swell of waves, he jumps from the cliffs and survives the fall. The third escape is a success and he is a free man.

What does prisoner wine taste like?

Costco Notes: Features enticing aromas of Bing cherry, dark chocolate, clove and roasted fig. Persistent flavors of ripe raspberry, boysenberry, pomegranate and vanilla linger harmoniously, for a smooth and luscious finish.

Why is it called prisoner wine?

The Prisoner Wine Company is named after the flagship wine that founding winemaker Dave Phinney originally produced with his inaugural release from 2000, a mere 385 cases.