The Orin Swift Blank Stare 2022 is a Sauvignon Blanc that deliberately deviates from the classic, fresh style. Dave Phinney, founder of Orin Swift Cellars, is known for his outspoken and unconventional approach. What makes Blank Stare different from a typical Sauvignon Blanc? This wine undergoes oak aging and partial malolactic fermentation, which provides more roundness and structure than you would expect from this grape.
This wine is made from Sauvignon Blanc with a small amount of Sémillion, sourced from California.
The grapes come from selected vineyards in California.
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Warm days and cool nights: ensure ripeness and preservation of freshness.
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Selection of vineyards: contributes to balance and complexity.
These conditions give Sauvignon Blanc here a riper and fuller style.
Sauvignon Blanc – California
Sauvignon Blanc is normally known for its fresh and aromatic character, but here it gets a different approach.
The wine ferments partly in oak barrels and undergoes partial malolactic fermentation, where malic acid is converted into softer lactic acid. This process provides a creamier mouthfeel and extra depth.
In the glass, the wine shows a clear golden yellow color. The style is characterized by ripe fruit, subtle wood influences, and a full structure. The combination of wood and Sauvignon Blanc results in a rich and layered wine that deviates from the classic profile of the grape.
Serve around 10–12 °C to optimally experience the balance between freshness and structure.
Orin Swift Cellars was founded by Dave Phinney and is known for its creative approach to winemaking. The winery works with grapes from various Californian regions and creates wines with a distinct style and recognizable labels, where innovation and character are central.

