Joseph Phelps – Insignia 2015, Estate Grown – Napa Valley

The nose is fruity, elegant and offers a beautiful juiciness as well as a beautiful expression of the fruit. It reveals notes of crunchy / juicy cassis, crunchy blackberries, small notes of crunchy strawberry and touches of fleshy / juicy raspberry combined with small toasted touches, tonka bean, tea, a very discreet hint of cardamom as well as an imperceptible hint of almond and nutmeg. The palate is fruity, well-balanced, slightly fleshy, precise, elegant and offers a good definition, a beautiful gourmandise, a beautiful texture, a beautiful straightness, suavity, a beautiful expression of the fruit as well as a good structure. On the palate this wine expresses notes of fleshy blackberry, fleshy cassis and small notes of crunchy Gariguette strawberry combined with slight touches of fresh / juicy raspberry, chocolate, caramelization as well as hints of Bourbon vanilla, toasted hints and an imperceptible hint of tea / camphor (in the background). Tannins are elegant and a bit mellow. Good length. There is an imperceptible touch of coffee on the aftertaste. (2022+)