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Joseph Phelps Vineyards
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1998 INSIGNIA PROPRIETARY RED WINE
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NAPA
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91
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1999 INSIGNIA PROPRIETARY RED WINE
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NAPA
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(93-96)
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1997 BACKUS
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NAPA
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93
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1999 BACKUS
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NAPA
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(93-96)
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Perhaps an even greater achievement [than the 1997], the 1998 Insignia is not up to the level of the 1997, but it is a fabulous wine from what was a far more challenging vintage. More evolved than the 1997 with a saturated ruby/purple color, it possesses a sumptuous bouquet of smoke, cedar, licorice and cassis. Another great Insignia in the making is the 1999. This fabulously concentrated, low acid yet super-endowed wine should rival the compelling 1997.
From a hillside vineyard overlooking the Oakville District, Phelps produces small quantities of their single vineyard Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. The sensational 1997 . . . displays great fruit intensity in its huge, thick, viscous flavors redolent with black currants, new saddle leather, spice box, and toasty oak. Because of the difficulties in 1998, no Backus vineyard was produced. However, the 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard may turn out to be as fabulous as both the 1997 and 1994. It is an astonishingly rich, full-bodied, super extracted, unctuously textured endeavor with layers of mineral-infused black cherry and cassis fruit . . .
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James Laube's Top-Scoring rhône-style Reds and Whites from California:
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Syrah Napa Valley 1997
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94
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Exotic, rich and polished, with plum, blackberry, wild berry, sage, roasted red pepper and beef notes. Creamy oak finish.
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JOSEPH PHELPS
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Viognier Napa Valley 1999
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94
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Intense peach, butter, floral and vanilla flavors are viscous and rich, long and detailed.
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JOSEPH PHELPS VINEYARDS 1997 Napa Valley Backus Vineyard. The deep, complex aromas of plums, loamy earth, currants and caramelized oak tones come complete with rich, ripe, concentrated fruit. Full and supple in feel with a hint of suppleness set against moderate tannic astringency for grip, this very special, densely packed effort has plenty of room for growth and should be set aside for a half dozen years or more of patient cellaring and then partnered with your favorite beef or lamb roast preparations. |
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