Joseph Phelps Vineyards

1995 Cabernet Sauvignon, Backus Vineyard
 

1995 Cabernet Sauvignon, Backus Vineyard

Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon
Blend and Grape Sources 100% Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.
Harvest Dates September 25 - 30, 1995
Winemaking Data Grapes were harvested from September 25 - 30, 1995 at an average 23.7 degrees Brix, fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged 24 months in 60-gallon French oak barrels before being bottled in January of 1998.
Winemaker Notes The 1995 growing season was notable for a wet spring, along with cool weather during June and July which delayed ripening and flavor development. A warm spell which prevailed throughout September and October finally brought the grapes to the desired ripeness and flavor levels, but tonnage was down and berry size was smaller than normal. The effect of the growing season on Backus fruit was to produce an exceptionally concentrated wine with chocolate-berry flavors and aromas, sweet, powerful tannins, and a long, lush, velvety finish. We believe this may well prove one of the most noteworthy wines of the vintage, and it should age well for many years.