Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

A red wine blend from Napa Valley, it was aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak. The Joseph Phelps Insignia 2018 has aromas that begin with notes of flowery black fruit, anise, and cigar box. The palate is crisp and concentrated, with layers of blackberry, mocha, and black cherry. The wine has depth, grace, and refinement. The smooth tannin structure and balance result in a long, exhilarating finish. A truly incredible wine, it scored a 99 on James Suckling, a 97 on Robert Parker, and a 96 on Decanter.

PAIRINGS

This heavenly Insignia vintage pairs best with hearty, heavy meals. From a well-cooked sirloin steak to lamb chops, to game meats like deer, venison, or quail, it makes a beautiful dinner drink. A hefty portion of roast chicken or duck in a port reduction would also be a good partner for this wine. It goes with cooler season vegetables like carrots and potatoes.

CALIFORNIAN DISTINCTION

The Joseph Phelps estate vineyard has been dedicated to producing wines of quality and character since the 1970s. The Insignia is their flagship wine, with forty vintages under its belt. Its vintages have won “Wine of the Year” from Wine Spectator and 100-point scores from Robert Parker Wine Advocate. Though Joseph Phelps now carries wines ranging from Rieslings to Delice, it’s Insignia Bordeaux-style red has been called “one of the world’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blends”.

Storage Instructions

It’s best to store unopened red wines in a cool, dry, and dark place safe from constant vibration. Keep your bottle horizontal in a wine rack or cellar to retain the moistness of the cork. The ideal temperature for storage is between 16 to 18°C.