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Cellar/Tasting Notes
"Recognized as one of the world's greatest wines"
Phelps Insignia is considered to be the "flagship" wine of the Joseph Phelps' Vineyards. The spectacular, highly sought after proprietary red blend is fashioned after the great reds of Bordeaux and represents the highest expression of winemaking. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (RP): 95+ The 2006 Insignia (95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot; 16,000 cases produced) is a superb effort in this vintage. Another 30+ year wine, it boasts a dense plum/purple color as well as abundant notes of licorice, black currants, charcoal, black olives, and graphite. Full-bodied, pure, and rich with moderately high tannins, it represents a California version of a Bordeaux from Pauillac or St.-Julien. Stephen Tanzer (ST): 91-93 "Bright, deep ruby. Primary aromas of cassis, violet, tar, minerals, licorice and nutty oak. Sweet black raspberry and mocha flavors are complicated by tar and licorice from the petit verdot component, and possess the mid-palate flesh to buffer the firm acid spine. Finishes with fine, dusty tannins for the year and excellent persistence..." Wine Spectator (WS): 94 "Teasing with its floral, spicy cherry, wild berry and currant aromas, this is full-bodied, firm and structured, tight and focused, offering glimpses of what lies ahead with its complex mix of flavors and tightly wound tannins. Yet its finesse and refinement are apparent on the finish. Needs time. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. " |