WTN: Just Joe

by **David M. Bueker** » Fri Jul 28, 2023 7:29 pm

1998 Joseph Phelps Insignia - USA, California, Napa Valley (7/28/2023)
1998 is often thought of as an”off vintage” for Napa Valley, but IMO that was only true if 1997 was the winemaking goal. Twenty-five years on, and this is mellow in expression, but full flavored with no indication of underripeness or dilution. The fruit is still present, and it has spice, tobacco, cedar and earthy accents. The texture is surprisingly silky, and not at all heavy. Not a lot of tannin left, so near term drinking seems to be best, but that won’t be a hardship.