1991 Joseph Phelps Insignia

An extraordinary dense plum/purple color is followed by a seductive as well as explosive bouquet of white chocolate, creme de cassis, spring flowers, licorice and a touch of graphite. This full-bodied, opulent 1991 reveals a flawless integration of acidity, tannin, wood and alcohol. Magnificent in the mouth with an opulent and voluptuous texture, and not a hard edge to be found, it reveals mindboggling purity and vigor. This sensational Insignia can be enjoyed over the next 10-15+ years. This has always been a famous vintage in Napa Valley, particularly for Cabernet Sauvignon. The wet spring, which broke a 5-year drought, was followed by an unusually cool, but dry growing season. Warm weather began in late September and continued into a beautiful Indian summer in October, which allowed patient producers to wait for sugar levels to raise and flavors to fully develop. As a result, many profound Napa Cabernets that have stood the test of time were produced in 1991. The final blend for the 1991 Insignia was 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, with 89% of the fruit from the Banca Dorada and Los Rocas vineyards, and 11% from growers. Production was 6,000 cases and the wine came in at 13.5% alcohol.

54% from Manly Road, Rutherford, that they call Banca Dorada, quite close to the Niebaum ranch (Coppola/Inglenook). Recently replanted, presumably. All of 21 months in oak. Especially deep crimson right out to the rim. Intense, concentrated, youthful cassis. Opulent without being hot. Bitter chocolate. Very smooth texture. Luscious. Definitely not bordeaux; real Napa Valley character? Still with a firm framework. Long and complete and well integrated even though some fine tannins are still perceptible. According to Bill Phelps, this wine really shows the important evolutionary changes. Best of everything here. (JR)