Orin Swift Cellars Machete Red Blend 2022

The 2022 Machete is a big, inky, unapologetic California red built on Petite Sirah. The nose is immediately expressive: Blackberry cobbler, black plum and blueberry up front, then licorice, dark chocolate and a savory, grilled-meat smokiness behind the fruit. On the palate, this carries far more muscle and grip than your typical California blend. Waves of dark fruit get a smoky sweetness from the oak, but a bright twist of orange peel and surprisingly fresh acidity keep all that power moving. The tannins are classic Petite Sirah, thick and chewy, driving a long, dark-fruited finish.