More About the Orin Swift 8 Years In the Desert California Red Blend 2022. In 2000, Dave Phinney introduced the inaugural vintage of The Prisoner, a Zinfandel-based red blend that swiftly captivated the industry. After crafting this iconic wine for eight years, Phinney sold the brand to Huneeus Vintners. A subsequent non-compete agreement prevented him from producing similar blends under his own label, Orin Swift, for a period of eight years. In 2016, Phinney triumphantly returned to Zinfandel blends with Orin Swift's 8 Years in the Desert. This vintage marked the beginning of a new chapter in his winemaking journey. The wine was immediately acclaimed for its smooth, approachable style, seductive fruit, and exceptional quality sourced from California's finest vineyards. The 2022 vintage, the seventh installment in Orin Swift's return to Zinfandel blends, showcases Phinney's continued artistry. With Petite Sirah and Syrah adding depth and complexity, this wine impresses with its fruit-forward character while maintaining an elegant balance. Winemaker's Tasting Notes: At first glance, the 2022 Eight Years in the Desert looks to be almost black, but after closer inspection, a dark crimson starts to shine through with a tinge of purple on the rim. The nose is rife with not es of ripe blueberry, black plum, wild raspberry, espresso bean , sweet oak and a hint of crème de menthe and cedar. The entry is akin to walking through a tunnel of velvet walls with blackberry jam, reduced strawberry and a touch of rhubarb. Bright acidity through out the palate, the wine closes with round, ripe tannins, fresh pluot and dark chocolate.