The 1985 Insignia is close to full maturity, exhibiting an exotic, mint/eucalyptus nose that recalls a Heitz Martha's Vineyard. Rich, with supple, full-bodied flavors, wonderfully sweet, ripe fruit, an unctuous texture, and a heady, rich, complex finish, this exceptional, distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon is capable of drinking well for 12-15+ years.

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Extremely herbal and earthy, very rich, supple and almost unctuous, but loaded with olive, spice, currant and plum flavors. Long and complex, but so distinctive that not everyone will love it. 4,700 cases made.

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When I first started collecting, 1985s from California were just being released and were heavily touted by wineries and the wine press as a superlative vintage. Despite these accolades, 1985s have disappointed me time and again. Luckily the 1985 Insignia is one of the good ones. It is still deeply colored with just a slight loss of pigmentation at the rim. A developed bouquet of rubber bands, spice, sandalwood, bologna, light mint, and muted cherry. Still blessed with lively acidity and decent levels of fruit concentration. In the finish, tannins linger and are drying - a trait of 1985. Overall, the wine remains a little chunky with heavy tannins and it is doubtful that further aging will allow them to resolve any more. 60% Cabernet; 25% Merlot; 15% Franc. Tasted from magnum.