Abstract (by Orin Swift) Red Wine 2021 (California)

Producer Notes: An opaque purple core with a glowing mauve rim, the 2021 Abstract brings forth opening aromas of muddled blue and blackberries with a frame of dark chocolate brownie and seasoned leather. The wine enters with class, being soft and lush, with notes of ripe plum, boysenberry and Santa Maria tri-tip. Grippy, chewy tannins, the wine closes with pleasing sarsaparilla and blackcurrant.

Decanter, 92 Points: Black cherry and kirsch, with pronounced oak, vanilla and chocolate notes. Broad and mouthfilling, with a deep concentration of blueberry fruit, black currant, vanilla and mocha. Grippy, angular tannins resolve with good acidity and a lengthy finish of earth, chocolate and cedar. This label was first introduced after the Prisoner sale, having debuted in 2009. 'With over 75,000 square miles of California represented in this blend, it is a true amalgamation,’ says Dave Phinney. The blend for Abstract begins with Grenache, and then they weave in Syrah and Petite Sirah, but the combination and blend differ from year to year.

Wine Advocate, 90 Points: Perhaps it is inevitable in a blended red that includes Petite Sirah, Grenache and Syrah, but the nose of the 2021 Proprietary Red Abstract is a bit generic, with decent fruit represented by a mix of berries and cherries. Sourced from areas as diverse as Sonoma, Napa and Lodi, it's full-bodied and softly tannic, with an herbal nuance and a hint of dark chocolate on the gently dusty finish. Best After 2023.