Joseph Phelps Insignia Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 750mL

The 2010 growing season experienced earlier bud break than 2009, but flowering and veraison occurred up to two weeks later. A prolonged frost season lasted until the end of May followed by mild early summer temperatures. Veraison was 50% complete by mid-August and warming trends in late August and late September helped to propel ripening. Overall fruit quality was exceptional. Structure, color and fruit expression in the wines are truly balanced and some of the best over the last decade.

Grape Varietals:

84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot, 2% Malbec

Tasting Notes:

Grapes were hand-picked and sorted to stainless steel tanks for cold soaking, followed by fermentation. Macerations were extended for up to forty days, adding to the wine’s velvety texture and concentrated, intense flavors prior to barrel aging. The 2010 Insignia has an incredibly inky hue with layers of perfumed plum, dark berries, bergamot, mocha and graphite aromas followed by hints of spice box. The texture on the palate is ultraconcentrated and silky with blackberry flavors and a touch of black pepper, cocoa and curry spices leading to the lush, lingering and focused finish.

97 Points - Wine Enthusiast, July 2015. "This is, as always, a gorgeous wine, rich, balanced and delicious. It shows classic Napa Valley ripeness, with blackberry jam, plum, dark chocolate and sweet oak flavors. Plush and velvety doesn't begin to do it justice. Despite its fabulous lushness, this is a wine to age. Depending on your taste, it will provide excellence from now until 2030."

95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, November 2013.