Orin Swift ‘Papillon’

Orin Swift Papillon: A Bold Napa Red With a Striking Story

Orin Swift Papillon is a powerful, richly layered Napa Valley red from one of California’s most recognisable modern wine producers. It is the sort of bottle that makes an impression before you have even opened it, thanks to its unforgettable label, but the wine inside more than holds its own. Deep, generous and full of dark fruit, this is a serious Californian red with plenty of presence.

Orin Swift was founded by Dave Phinney, whose route into wine was anything but predictable. After spending time in Italy in the 1990s, he decided not to become a lawyer and instead threw himself into winemaking. He worked a harvest at Robert Mondavi, experimented with Zinfandel plantings in Arizona, and later launched The Prisoner in 1997. Orin Swift followed, becoming known for bold Napa Valley wines, strong visual identity and characterful blends with real impact.

Papillon stands out for its depth, structure and wonderfully dramatic personality. The name means “butterfly” in French, but the wine is anything but delicate. It brings together the richness and concentration Napa is famous for, with dark fruit, savoury spice, firm tannins and a polished finish. It is big, but not blunt. There is detail here too, from floral notes and anise to sweet oak and a mineral lift running through the palate.

In the glass, it has a deep crimson core with a slight brick tint at the rim. The nose is expressive and intense, with currant, blackberry, blue fruits, anise, lavender and a subtle touch of brioche. The palate is broad and layered, moving from mixed berry pie, blackcurrant, boysenberry and black cherry into notes of sarsaparilla, cola, sage and fire-roasted meat. Fine, chalky tannins give it grip, with a texture that recalls black tea and baking chocolate. The finish is smooth, long and warming, with a final hint of sweet oak.

Orin Swift Papillon Food Pairing Suggestion:

Try Orin Swift Papillon with a yakiniku bowl. The wine’s dark fruit, savoury spice and firm tannins work beautifully with grilled beef, sticky rice, sesame, charred edges and a rich soy-based sauce. It would also be very happy with slow-cooked short rib, barbecued meats, a rare steak, or anything with smoky, deeply savoury flavours.

About Orin Swift Papillon:

• “Papillon” is the French word for butterfly. Dave Phinney named the wine after his young daughter pointed out a butterfly in French while they were walking among the vines.
• The label deliberately contrasts the pretty name with a rugged image of aged hands tattooed across the knuckles.
• The name Papillon worked perfectly for the label because it has eight letters, fitting across two sets of four knuckles.