Team C&J
Joseph Phelps Vineyards is a cornerstone of Napa Valley’s winemaking narrative. Established in 1973, the winery is celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation, with Insignia emerging as its flagship wine. Ashley Hepworth, the winemaker at the helm, has brought her expertise and vision to the Insignia program, carrying forward a tradition of excellence established over decades.
The estate’s philosophy revolves around crafting wines that capture the essence of their terroir. The 2018 Insignia exemplifies this approach, showcasing the synergy between varietals and the influence of Napa’s microclimates. A blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 3% Malbec, and 2% Cabernet Franc, it is a masterclass in harmony and balance.
The 2018 Insignia was aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak, a hallmark of its style. This meticulous aging process has imbued the wine with its signature richness and complexity, seamlessly integrating the wood into the wine’s profile. The use of Petit Verdot and Malbec adds structure and depth, while Cabernet Franc lends aromatic finesse.
While the wine is undoubtedly approachable now, it is a wine built for the long haul. With its firm structure and vibrant acidity, it will continue to evolve gracefully through 2038. Expect the bold fruit to mellow over time, giving way to tertiary notes of leather, dried flowers, and forest floor.
Pouring a glass of the 2018 Insignia reveals a deep ruby hue with garnet highlights. This intensity of color hints at the wine’s concentration and depth. The clarity and brilliance reflect its careful crafting, promising an enticing experience from the first glance.
The bouquet of the 2018 Insignia is captivatingly complex. It opens with notes of ripe blackberries and cassis, underscored by a medley of dark fruits. A secondary layer reveals the influence of 100% new French oak aging, with nuances of vanilla, cedar, and warm spices like clove and cinnamon. Subtle undertones of sage, dried herbs, and a faint trace of wet leather add further intrigue.
On the palate, the wine is opulent yet impeccably structured. Rich waves of black plum and cassis dominate, accompanied by black violets and a touch of tar. These bold flavors are complemented by secondary notes of cocoa, tobacco, and a distinct chalky minerality. The tannins, while pronounced, are remarkably fine-grained and integrated, providing a chewy texture that enhances the wine’s complexity.
The wine’s medium acidity acts as a counterbalance to its richness, lending vibrancy and ensuring a long, layered finish. The cedar and dried herb notes extend into the aftertaste, where a dusting of dark chocolate lingers.
At $350, but you can find it for $289 over at Wine Searcher, this is a significant investment, but one that delivers if you have the budget. Its 98-point score reflects the wine’s impeccable craftsmanship and ability to captivate both seasoned collectors and enthusiastic newcomers to fine wine.
The 2018 vintage is a triumph, capturing the essence of Napa Valley in a bottle. With its harmonious blend, impeccable balance, and impressive aging potential, it solidifies Insignia’s status as a benchmark for luxury wines worldwide.
USA
Napa
Cabernet Sauvignon
14.7
Ashley Hepworth
62–68°F / 16–20°C
Large Bordeaux
1 Hour
Now to 2038
Joseph Phelps Vineyards
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