Insignia (1978)

About this wine

The 1978 Insignia from Joseph Phelps Vineyards is a remarkable red blend that highlights the best of Napa Valley's terroir. This wine offers a deep ruby color, indicating its well-preserved nature. On the nose, it presents aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and a hint of tobacco, reflecting the maturity of the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc blend. The palate is rich and layered, featuring flavors of dark berries, cedar, and a touch of spice, leading to a long, smooth finish. Notably, the 1978 vintage was produced before the Napa Valley AVA was officially established in 1981, making it a testament to the region's potential even in its formative years.

About the grape

In 1978, Joseph Phelps Vineyards crafted their Insignia wine using a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its deep color and robust tannins, formed the backbone of the blend. Merlot added softness and ripe fruit flavors, while Cabernet Franc contributed aromatic complexity and subtle spice notes. This combination showcased the versatility of these Bordeaux varietals in Napa Valley's terroir.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1978 Insignia was crafted from a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Franc, showcasing a harmonious combination of these classic Bordeaux varietals.
• 🛢️ This vintage underwent an extended aging process of 24 months in French oak barrels, contributing to its complex flavor profile and longevity.
• 🌦️ The 1978 growing season in Napa Valley featured heavy rains that replenished drought-stricken soils, followed by a warm summer with heat spikes in late September, leading to an earlier-than-expected harvest.
• 🏆 Esteemed wine critic Robert Parker awarded the 1978 Insignia a remarkable 95 points, praising its deep, ripe, full-bodied nature and opulent fruit character.
• 🍷 Upon release, only 1,200 cases of the 1978 Insignia were produced, making it a rare and sought-after vintage among collectors.

Palate profile

Producer

Joseph Phelps Vineyards was founded in 1973 by Joe Phelps, a former construction executive from Colorado, who transformed a 600-acre cattle ranch near St. Helena, California, into a renowned winery. In 1974, the winery introduced 'Insignia,' the first proprietary Bordeaux-style blend in California, marking a significant innovation in the state's wine industry. Over the years, Joseph Phelps Vineyards expanded its estate to include 525 acres across 11 vineyards in Napa Valley and the Sonoma Coast, emphasizing sustainable practices and land preservation. In 2022, the winery was acquired by Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), integrating it into a global portfolio of luxury wine brands.