Aug 08, 2022
98 Points 2019 Insignia ~ James Suckling
98 points – 2019 Joseph Phelps Insignia
A very aromatic Insignia with pencil-shaving and graphite highlights to the dark fruit and blackberries. Full-bodied, yet tensioned and vertical, with very fine tannins that run deep and layered in the wine… fantastic tension and structure. (2022)
— James Suckling
94 points – 2019 Joseph Phelps Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Blackberry and light dried fruit with oyster-shell undertones. It’s full-bodied with round, lightly chewy tannins that nicely accentuate the fruit character. Walnuts and wet earth. Delicious now, but better in two or three years.
— James Suckling
98 points – 2019 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Backus Vineyard
Tobacco, ripe-berry, tar and dried-flower aromas. Full-bodied with lots of ripe berries, together with chocolate, walnuts and hazelnuts. Solid and powerful with layers of tannins and wonderful length. Phelps Preferred Shipment Only.
— James Suckling
94 points – 2019 Joseph Phelps Syrah, Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard
Very typical Syrah with green tobacco leaf, tar and dark fruit. Some meat, too. Lightly peppery. Medium to full body. Juicy finish. 40% whole cluster, and co-fermented with 5% Viognier. Delicious now and can age. Phelps Preferred Shipment Only.
— James Suckling
