Painted Scars 2022 Proprietary Red, Côtes Catalanes

                 Painted Scars is the new release from Dave Phinney's new winery and vineyards in Maury, France. 95 Points Decanter: "Dave’s Painted Scars 2022 is fully loaded—bursting with kirsch, violet pastilles, sweet oak spice, and crushed red rock volcanic minerality. Full-bodied and plush, it shows daring tannins and a long, dark-fruited finish. The blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah comes from old vines planted in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains, straddling the border between France and Spain. The label, from Dave Phinney’s Department 66 project in Maury, France, features artwork taken from a page in a 19th-century anatomy book. Mexican tattoo artist Dr Lakra (Jeronimo Lopez Ramirez) used microfibre brushes to apply his distinctive tattoo designs to the man’s skin. Phinney, a long-time admirer and collector of Dr Lakra’s work, selected the image for its arresting detail—you could easily get lost in the owl’s eyes or the woman’s steady gaze on the figure’s right forearm. The same is true of the wine itself: it pulls you in with hypnotic intensity and holds you there with depth, texture, and raw beauty. (Drink between 2025-2033)." 93 Points Wine Enthusiast: "From vineyards that ring around the Roussillon village of Maury, this is a bold, potent and clean bottling, starting with aromas of dense earth and blackberry. A creamy sensation envelops the palate, where ripe berry sauce flavors meet with a savory teriyaki beef kick, a warm graham cracker toast and a persistent acidity that pushes into the finish." Dave Phinney's Orin Swift Department 66 'Painted Scars' is a bold embodiment of artistry in a bottle, hailing from the sun-drenched vineyards of Cotes Catalanes, France. This wine, with its deep garnet hue, delivers a complex nose brimming with dark fruits, smoky leather, and earthy underbrush, underscored by seductive hints of licorice and spice. On the palate, it unfolds layers of rich blackberry, ripe plum, and a touch of peppery spice that meld seamlessly with velvety tannins. Full-bodied yet balanced, it closes with a persistent finish that leaves a memorable imprint. Ideal for those who appreciate a wine that combines intensity with elegance. A blend of Grenache and Syrah.