
Red wine
Joseph Phelps, Insignia 2018
Joseph Phelps is practically the inventor of the Bordeaux blend in California, and the team has done a wonderful job with the Insignia in 2018. Clarice Turner, who began as a trainee 23 years ago and is now head of winemaking and director, knows exactly how to get juice, tension and power out of Cabernet Sauvignon while still maintaining nuance. A ton of interest and spice here. Great persistency through the palate, soft black pepper, rosebud and oyster shell on the finish adds a fragrant, saline twist. I am always a fan of this wine, and love that it showcases the history and quality of Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa.
Score
Wine Details
Colour
Red
Wine Style
Still
Grape Varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon (87%), Petit Verdot (8%), Malbec (3%), Cabernet Franc
Alcohol
14.5%
Bottle size
750ml
Drink dates
2023 - 2040
Origin
Country
USA
Region
California
Tasting Information
Blind
No
Tasted by
Jane Anson