Joseph Phelps Vineyards

2007 Insignia
 

2007 Insignia

Publication The Wine Advocate
Author Robert M. Parker
Date 12-23-2010
Award 98
Review "The 2007 Insignia (a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot) looks to be one of the greatest wines yet produced at this historic winery. Beautiful aromas of crème de cassis and flowers jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored effort. Sweet oak is present, but it is pushed to the background by the wine’s extravagant wealth of fruit and full-bodied power. This is finesse and flavor authority put into a classic Napa Valley Cabernet with a seamless integration of all its component parts. Already complex and approachable, it should evolve for three decades or more, but who can resist it now? It is a staggering, complex expression of Napa viticulture. Anticipated maturity: now-2030."
Publication The Wine Advocate
Author Robert M. Parker Jr.
Award 97-100 Points
Review "Its inky/purple color is followed by aromas of crème de cassis, incense, crushed rocks, lead pencil shavings, cedar and spice box. It possesses a massive, opulent mouthfeel, serious tannins, and no hard edges. This stunning effort should hit its peak in 5–8 years, and last 40 years."
Publication The Wine Spectator Insider
Author James Laube
Volume Vol. 6, No. 35
Date August 25, 2010
Award 96 Points
Review "Firm, intense and concentrated, massive yet well-proportioned, with a dense, focused core of graphite, dried currant, blackberry, black tea, forest floor and blueberry flavors. Full-blown, finishing with rich, layered tannins that beg for cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2013 through 2025."
Publication International Wine Cellar
Date 05-06/10
Award 94 Points
Review "Bottled three weeks prior to my visit. Bright ruby. Claret-like nose offers cassis, minerals, bitter chocolate and strong soil tones. Densely packed and quite tight today, in a classically dry style. But there’s also superb sex appeal and excellent energy to the flavors of plum, currant, licorice, bitter chocolate and spices. Most impressive today on the long, chocolatey aftertaste." Website.