Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Winery Background and History

Joseph Phelps Vineyards was founded in 1973 in St. Helena, Napa Valley. Initially planting Bordeaux-inspired varietals, the estate is best known for its flagship Insignia, but it also produces varietal bottlings like this Cabernet Sauvignon using grapes from its estate vineyards and surrounding regions  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Under longtime winemaker Ashley Hepworth and team, the 2021 Cabernet is crafted with meticulous site selection and aging protocols. Emphasis is placed on integrating fruit and oak while preserving regional intensity  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Sourced mainly from Joseph Phelps’ 70-acre estate vineyards in Napa Valley. The 2021 season featured a cool spring followed by warm late summer, encouraging concentrated fruit development  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fermented and aged for ~18 months in 48% new oak (58% French, 42% American) and 52% two-year-old barrels. Cooperage includes Taransaud, Dargaud-Jaegle, Demptos, Marcel Cadet, and Sylvain  .

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby-purple; aromas of black plums, cassis, dark chocolate, clove, and tobacco leaf. Palate is medium-to-full-bodied with expressive black fruit, supple tannins, cedar, spice, and a savory, mint-accented finish  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs splendidly with grilled ribeye, roasted lamb, beef short ribs, mushroom-based pasta, or aged cheddar—highlighting its fruit, spice, and savory structure.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18 °C in large Bordeaux-style crystal glasses. Decant for 1–2 hours to soften tannins and enhance aromatics ().

Storage and Aging Potential

Approachable now with decanting, this 2021 will evolve gracefully through 2037. Ideal cellar conditions: 12–14 °C with ~70% humidity  .

Grape Varietals & percentage used

– Cabernet Sauvignon 92%

– Petit Verdot 4%

– Cabernet Franc 2%

– Merlot 1%

– Malbec 1% 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5% ()

Scores

• 94 – Wine Enthusiast 

• 93 – Wine Spectator ()

• 93 – Jeb Dunnuck 

• 91–93 – Wine Advocate (Joe Czerwinski)