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| Rob Williams - Cabernets and Blends | ||
Rob's "Wine of the Week" Archives So here is my wine review for the week of November 13th... Phelps Insignia 2003
Description: Regular readers and listeners know that this, I believe is the single greatest bottle of wine consistently produced anywhere. It has been named Wine of the Year multiple times by numerous respected organizations and always delivers an amazing experience. It is, in my opinion, what a $150 bottle of wine must smell, taste and feel like, year after year. How to Get it: If not already sold out, available at the winery in Napa, sometimes at Bevmo, many grocery stores carry it as their top-end wine, in many restaurants, often at warehouse stores, and on-line. How Much: The winery wants about $150. Albertsons and Raley's want about $135, I've seen it as cheap as $85-95 dollars at Costco and Sam's. My Thoughts: I literally received my shipment only a few weeks ago so this is a young new red. As you would expect, it is a little tight, even though I decanted it for 4 hours. Such conditions are stacked against a red from the start so it takes a truly great bottle to overcome those odds and yet again, the Insignia does so. The flavors and body are all there; vanilla and mocha whit a smooth, lingering finish and very little dark fruit to gum up the works. A little cinnamon is there which will probably dissipate over time. Having had my share of Insignia, I know where this bottle is headed. Lay it down for 18-36 months and you will have one of the best reds you've ever had. It's not as good as the 1999 or 1997, but I rank it above the 2001 already.
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