1978 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard

The 1978 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard was almost as stellar as the 1975. There was plenty of muscle to the 1978, but it showed a bit more of a medium-bodied personality. Layers of sweet red fruit, mint and eucalyptus wrapped around the long finish.

Last Tasted 12/91 This wine is still black/purple in color, with a blossoming bouquet of minerals, cassis, flowers, and oak. In the mouth, it is phenomenally concentrated, amazingly youthful, and in need of at least another 7-10 years of cellaring. While this monumental effort from Phelps should prove to be one of California's greatest wines, owners of it will need to exercise some patience. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2020.