2000 Joseph Phelps, Insignia, Napa Valley 1x750ml

Vinous 89

Bright, dark red. Cool, rather withdrawn aromas of cassis, dusty herbs, tobacco leaf and cocoa powder, with hints of tomato leaf and olive. Juicy and penetrating, showing good herbal lift but only modest flesh and sweetness to its cassis and graphite flavors. Finishes a touch sour, with firm, slightly dry-edged tannins and a rustic hint of maple syrup. Probably going nowhere. I find the 1998 a bit sweeter, with finer-grained tannins. [Stephen Tanzer, 04/01/2016]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2020

Robert Parker 91

The 2000 Insignia (20,000 cases) is a blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec. A strong effort for the vintage, it possesses a dense ruby/purple color in addition to a powerful nose of licorice, espresso roast, and black currants, medium to full body, a lush mid-palate, and a sweet, concentrated finish with no hard edges. It is a forward, precocious Insignia to enjoy over the next ten years. [01/12/2003]

Anticipated maturity: 2003-2013