Some would argue that Dave Phinney is one of California’s most iconic and influential winemakers of the 21st century.

The Orin Swift brand has grown to become symbolic of a force in California Wine whose following is one of the most dedicated and enthusiastic in the industry. Its supporters, who are often fanatical over the lush and robust style of winemaking, represent a niche market in which no other label can compare, or compete for that matter.

Dave’s ability to produce high-quality wine from some of the most sought-after fruit sources in California and match it with exceptional narratives and art gallery-like imagery has undoubtedly altered the way in which consumers and marketers think about wine.

As this trailblazing winemaker continues his journey through the peaks and valleys of California’s iconic vineyards, I have taken notice of his more rare and exclusive projects, which in contrast to his more well-known wines, are made in extremely miniscule amounts. Enter l’usine.

The 2017 vintage brings us the inaugural release of two separate single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, as well as one single appellation Pinot, all bottled under the l’usine label.

l’usine – French for “the factory” – is, in Dave’s words, an homage to all of the Warhols of the world. All those with disdain for the status quo of a defined or insulated model, much like that of the Phinney himself.

l'usine Annapolis Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017

Annapolis Vineyard, the site for the first vineyard designate bottling, is located within the Sonoma Coast appellation, and is planted on a 30-degree slope in Goldridge fine sandy loam soil. The site is extremely isolated and requires lots of attention during the growing season. L’usine Annopolis Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017 speaks to the terroir of this vineyard with its flavors of wild strawberry, bright red cherry, and Pacific Ocean freshness. The nose strikes a balance between fruit and earth as white pepper aromatics intermingle with nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove.

l'usine Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017

We travel south to the Santa Lucia Highlands to find the site for L’usine’s second vineyard designate bottling. L’usine Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017 comes from one of the more unsolicited areas within the Central Coast, however, in the hands of Dave Phinney, the wine is hard not to find impressive. Aromatics of ripe cranberries, forest floor, mushroom and fig all burst out the glass. The palate is silky and engaging with ripe cherry and juicy ocean spray cranberry. Concentration complemented by finesse.

l'usine Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2017

Fruit for the final bottling comes from Santa Barbara’s Sta. Rita Hills; an area that happens to be one of my favorite regions for the Pinot Noir grape. A blend of fruit from 4 separate hillside sites, L’usine Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2017 exhibits a darker fruit profile, as compared to the brighter style of the previous two wines. Aromatics of blueberry, raspberry, black pepper, and dank earth impress on the nose. The palate has a spice element that complements flavors of redcurrant and tart cherry.

It is my absolute pleasure to be able to offer you these wines in an exclusive 6-bottle package, containing two bottles of each L’usine wine. Inventory is extremely limited, and I was able to access only a small amount directly from the winery. That said, if this is something you would like to add to your collection, I encourage you to place your order sooner rather than later.

As always, you are more than welcome to contact me with any questions you might have.

Cheers!

Carey Vanderborg

Wine Director

l'usine 6-Pack

Mayacama Member Price: $435 | Suggested Retail Price: $580

One 6-pack per Member maximum