2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot . Very pure, virtually saintly clarity to the blackcurrant flavour, and choc-mint secondary characters too. Dry, absolutely focused ripe and juicy fruit. Natural flavours, organic tasting, if there is such a thing. Immensely lengthy too, and only just hinting at the development to come, despite being very approachable now. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Cabernet Sauvignon at Phelps is represented by the opulent 2004 Napa, a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot. A sexy style of Cabernet, dark ruby/purple-colored, with notes of subtle herbs intermixed with black currant, cedar, and spice, this medium to full-bodied wine should be drunk over the next 7-8 years. Previously recommended: 2003 Insignia (94), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard (96), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (88). Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831
Good deep ruby-red. Blackcurrant syrup, menthol and nutty oak on the nose. Rich, creamy and very ripe, with high-toned black fruit flavors nicely framed by sound acidity. Quite substantial for this bottling. Finishes with building tannins and a sizable structure. This has turned out well.
Good ruby-red. Pure but subdued nose hints at blackberry and cassis. High-pitched, juicy and concentrated, with very primary flavors of black fruits and eucalyptus. Firm and persistent on the end. More structured than the 2003 example.
About the producer
California winery Joseph Phelps is best known for its flagship Insignia cuvée, one of the first and finest proprietary red wines in the Napa Valley.