Insignia (1979)

About this wine

The 1979 Joseph Phelps Insignia is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, showcasing the winery's early commitment to crafting Bordeaux-style blends in Napa Valley. This wine presents aromas of black pepper, cassis, and dark fruits, leading to a palate that offers a nice chocolate note on the finish. The 1979 vintage was challenging, with a cool spring and intermittent rain during harvest, yet this wine demonstrates the resilience and skill of the winemaking team. While it may not exhibit the complexity of some other vintages, it provides a good mouthfeel and a pleasant drinking experience.

About the grape

In the 1979 Joseph Phelps Vineyards Insignia, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot played pivotal roles. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its deep color and robust tannins, provided the wine's structure and aging potential. Merlot, with its softer tannins and ripe fruit flavors, added approachability and rounded out the blend. This combination showcased the versatility of these Bordeaux varietals in Napa Valley's terroir.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1979 Joseph Phelps Insignia is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, showcasing a harmonious combination of these two classic Bordeaux varietals.
• 🛢️ This vintage was aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels, contributing to its complex flavor profile and aging potential.
• 🌧️ The 1979 growing season in Napa Valley was challenging, with intermittent rain during harvest, yet the Insignia from this year produced a full-flavored wine with soft tannins.
• 🍫 Critics have noted the wine's tasting notes include black pepper, cassis, dark fruits, and a chocolate finish, offering a rich and layered experience.
• 💰 As of recent years, bottles of the 1979 Insignia have been valued at over $500, reflecting its status as a 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.