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Joseph Phelps Insignia(1997)

The 1997 vintage presented one of the most challenging growing seasons in recent memory, yet produced some of the best red wines California has seen in decades. Early on, barrel tastings of the 1997 Insignia indicated color and flavor concentrations beyond the levels achieved in 1994 and 1995, and we consider those two years among the best in the last 25!

After torrential rainfall in December and January, warm, dry weather through July initiated early budbreak, excellent fruit set, and veraison which was two to three weeks earlier than normal. Sugar concentrations were near read more...
Snooth User: mwmeyers312 19

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mwmeyers312
July 2008

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Stephen Tanzer
International Wine Cellar
Issue 90, May/June 2000
94/100
July 2007
Full ruby. Supersweet aromas of blackberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, espresso and tobacco. Thick and seamless yet bright and sharply defined. Very long and spicy on the aftertaste, with excellent grip. Sweet tannins coat the teeth. Williams says the selection for Insignia is based on quality and concentration rather than on a particular flavor profile.
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Robert Parker
The Wine Advocate
Issue 132
96/100
July 2007
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James Laube
Wine Spectator
96/100
July 2007
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Jancis Robinson
17/20
May 2008
This famous wine is certainly made for the long term, which distinguishes it from many of its peers. It starts sweet if not exactly intense or smooth but by the end of the palate both tannins and acidity are quite insistent. Hold.
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