2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard, from a steep hillside site in the low end of the Vaca mountains, across from Rudd Vineyards and Screaming Eagle, boasts an inky/purple color along with remarkably sweet tannins, especially for Backus, which tends to be a forbiddingly backward style of Cabernet. It possesses broad, expansive flavors, an opulent, full-bodied palate and unreal length. One of the superstars of the vintage, it can be enjoyed over the next 20 years. Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
95 pp, 94 ws. Pure and juicy, almost jammy, well-tamed oak and luxurious mouthfeel. Has the indulgent quality – very ornate but not OTT – like an Amarone, perhaps? Rounded, muscular. (RH)
Deep ruby. Inviting nose combines black cherry, licorice, tar, mocha and lead pencil. Lush, silky and compellingly sweet, with harmonious acidity for the year. Classic currant and cedar flavors are broad and thoroughly ripe without going over the top. Huge but shapely wine, finishing with captivating sweetness and noble tannins. A great vintage for this property. This was bottled in December of 2006, a bit earlier than recent vintages and obviously a good idea.
Good medium ruby. Feral aromas of crushed cassis and smoked meat. Supple on entry, then quite restrained and closed in the middle. Best today on the very long finish, which features ripe tannins that reach the front teeth and compelling sweetness of fruit.
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.