The 2018 Insignia from Napa Valley producer Joseph Phelps has been released, “one of the best ever” according to James Suckling.
- The wine has been released internationally for £1,956 per 12×75.
- “One of the best Insignias ever,” according to James Suckling.
- Vintages 2009, 2013 and 2016 offer very good value for money.
Joseph Phelps Insignia 2018 has been released for €154 per bottle ex-négociant, an increase of 6.9% on the 2017’s initial offer (€144).
The wine is being offered internationally for £1,956 per 12×75 case, up 1.9% on the 2017 release price (£1,920).
Production in 2018 amounts to 17,000 cases. The first vintage of Insignia was 1974; it was one of the first Bordeaux blends produced in California.
Critical opinion
Today’s release received 97+ points from Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW (The Wine Advocate). She commented that the 2018 “demonstrates remarkable balance at this youthful stage”.
The wine also boasts 99-points from James Suckling, who described it as “full-bodied with ultra-fine, dusty tannins and a wonderful, extremely long finish”.
Jane Anson awarded it 97-points and found “a ton of interest and spice” in the wine. She added: “I am always a fan of this wine, and love that it showcases the history and quality of Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa”.
Fair Value
There are a number of back vintages, available in the market for less. The similarly scored 2009 (WA 97), for instance, costs 30% less than today’s release.
The 2013, boasting 98+ from Robert Parker, comes at 8.5% discount. The 2016 looks particularly good value with 99-points from The Wine Advocate, and at £1,722 per case.
Other releases
The second wine of Insignia, Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, was also released today at €44 per bottle ex-négociant. It is being offered by the international trade for £564 per 12×75. Thirty-six thousand cases were made.
The wine received 96-points from James Suckling, 93-points from Antonio Galloni (Vinous) and a barrel range of 91-93 from Perrotti-Brown MW.
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