Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley 1997

99 points Falstaff Guide: "Strong ruby garnet, purple reflections, broader ochre rim. Hints of candied purple fruits, black berry fruit, blackberries, fresh tangerines, mineral touch, multi-faceted bouquet. Complex, juicy, extracted sweetness, fine tannins, lingers for minutes, this is a benchmark wine, in great harmony, silky, would love to have more of this in the cellar. (Drink/+25). (Apr 2017)"

97 points Wine Spectator: "Dense, rich and focused, youthful and concentrated, with hints of maturity on the edge of the core currant, mineral and spicy berry flavors. Wonderful vibrancy and intensity for a wine this age, which only bodes well for the future. A classic. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot.--'97 California Cabernet retrospective. (2008)"

97 points Jeff Leve (The Wine Cellar Insider): "Juicy, lush, fat and sweet, with perfectly ripe fruit, density of flavor, silky textures and a blast of blackberry, cherry, spice, smoke and licorice. This is a true wine of pleasure. A wine of this quality with a production level of close to 18,000 cases is truly quite an accomplishment, when you think about it. (Sep 2015)"

100 points Robert Parker: "An inky/plum/purple color is accompanied by a stunning bouquet of violets, charcoal, creme de cassis and a hint of toast. Prodigious when it hits the palate with a full-bodied expansiveness, there is not a hard edge to be found in the 1997, only velvety tannins, compelling depth and fruit intensity, and stunning purity. It is a perfect expression of Napa viticulture and wine that should continue to age effortlessly for two decades or more. Drink: 2013-2033. (11/29/13)"

95 points Wine Enthusiast: "Opens with aromas of black cherry and pencil lead, fruitcake and cookie dough; now it's all one big melange wrapped a bit tight. The balance and immense depth of fruit shine, even in this unevolved state. Standard dark-plum and chocolate notes are rendered with uncommon subtlety here. The finish goes on and on. Needs four to six years, but will last and last. (Jan 2000)"

94 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Full ruby. Supersweet aromas of blackberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, espresso and tobacco. Thick and seamless yet bright and sharply defined. Very long and spicy on the aftertaste, with excellent grip. Sweet tannins coat the teeth. Williams says the selection for Insignia is based on quality and concentration rather than on a particular flavor profile. (May/Jun 2000)"