Joseph Phelps Vineyards: 1993 Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

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BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES:
100% Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.

HARVEST DATE:
September 1, 1993

WINEMAKING DATA:
Grapes were harvested on September 1, 1993 at an average 23.5 degrees Brix. After fermentation, the wine was aged 26 months in 60-gallon French oak barrels and bottled in January of 1996.

The Backus Vineyard consists of a small parcel located southeast of the intersection of Silverado Trail and Oakville Crossroad. Planted to Cabernet Sauvignon in 1975, its first crop was harvested in 1977 (the year we acquired a long-term lease on the property), and bottled separately with a single vineyard designation.

The distinctive flavors of Backus Cabernet are attributable to a number of factors specific to this rugged site, including the steep hillside upon which the vines are planted, the western-facing exposure that receives almost ten hours of sunlight per day, and the gravelly, well-drained soil. Fruit tends to be riper, flavors stronger, and tannins more powerful without being biting or harsh. It is perhaps the quality of the tannins that really sets this vineyard apart, along with the chocolate, mint and ripe berry flavors that are the hallmarks of Backus Vineyard fruit. In 1993, low crop yields intensified both flavors and tannins, yielding a wine that will reward collectors for many years.