1994 Joseph Phelps Insignia

"The 1994 boasts an inky/purple color along with a glorious nose of black raspberries, blackberries and black currants that is still somewhat primary despite nearly 18 years in bottle. The Phelps team kept this cuvee in 100% new French oak for 28 months. Its magnificent structure, intensity and purity of fruit, ripeness, balance combined with authoritative power and the magnetic appeal of this full-bodied, Bordeaux-styled wine are extraordinary. The 1994 vintage has long been considered to be one of Napa Valley's finest years over the last three decades. A bone-chilling spring, a cooler than normal early summer, and a gentle, increasingly warm August through early October resulted in small berries that resulted in concentrated, pure wines. There were 8,000 cases of the 1994 Insignia made from a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc (69% from estate vineyards and 31% from growers). Still in its adolescence, the remarkable Insignia is one of many stunning Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines produced in Napa in 1994." 98/100 - Wine Advocate