Joseph Phelps – Insignia 2014, Estate Grown – Napa Valley

The nose is fruity, crunchy, elegant and offers a slight intensity. It reveals notes of blackberry, very ripe cassis and small notes of crushed red berries associated with touches of acidulous raspberry candy, liquorice as well as hints of violet, cooked blueberry and spices. The palate is fruity, juicy, beautifully balanced, elegant and offers a good definition, finesse, an acidulous frame, a small aerial side as well as a beautiful freshness. On the palate this wine expresses notes of ripe / crunchy cassis, juicy black cherry and small notes of crunchy red berries associated with small hints of Zan, tobacco, cardamom as well as very discreet toasted hints / vanilla, crushed almond and chocolate. Tannins are fine, elegant, young and a bit firm. There are very discreet hints of hazelnut / almond and an imperceptible hint of tea (in the background) on the persistence. Beautiful, gourmande and juicy persistence. Small chews on the finish / persistence.