Phelps, Joseph - Insignia 1986

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "This surprisingly rich, dark garnet-colored Insignia displays notes of cedarwood, tobacco leaf, black currants, graphite and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied with remarkable density, richness and vigor for its age, one would think that with this much Merlot in the blend it would be near the end of its life, but that's not the case. It appears to have reached its plateau of full maturity, but it should drink well for another decade or more."

JANCIS ROBINSON: "Transparent ruby. Fresh, aromatic and spicy (hint of cinnamon). Minerally, racy, very much terroir-influenced. Delicate. Admirable. But just starting to lose fruit. Brisk and clean."