1997 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard
UNITED STATES / CALIFORNIA / NAPA
- 93 WA
- 96 WS
- 92 IWC
- Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon
Out of stock
International Wine Cellar | Rating: 92
Deep ruby. Tightly wrapped aromas of blackberry, cassis, mint and Valrhona chocolate. Sweet, layered and chewy in the mouth; shows distinctly more rustic texture and flavors than the Insignia. Impressively large structure. Finishes with big, chewy tannins and a hint of menthol. But the tannins are thoroughly ripe. A very strong vintage for this wine.Author: Stephen TanzerIssue: May/June 2000Wine Spectator | Rating: 96
Deliciously rich, ripe, smooth and polished, with dense tiers of currant, mocha, black cherry, plum, spice and cedar flavors. Turns silky-smooth and chocolaty on the finish. 800 cases made.Author: James LaubeWine Advocate | Rating: 93
From a hillside overlooking the Oakville District, Phelps produces small quantities of their single vineyard Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, which is aged in 100% new French Taransaud oak. The sensational 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard is a muscular, highly-extracted, full-bodied effort that requires 3-4 years of cellaring. Although not very approachable, it displays great fruit intensity in its huge, thick, viscous flavors redolent with black currants, new saddle leather, spice box, and toasty oak. Long, powerful, and intense, it exhibits both sweet tannin and immense concentration.Author: Robert Parker
Since its founding in 1972, Joseph Phelps Vineyards has been on the cutting edge of many California wine developments. From the Bordeaux-blend Insignia, first made in 1974 and Wine Spectator's wine of the year for the 2002 vintage; to the resurrection of California Syrah, also first produced in 1974, the winery has earned critical acclaim for its many estate-grown wines.
Collector Data For This Wine
- 250 bottles owned
- 83 collectors