Quite delicious, but needs a 2+ hour decant even at 10+ years (plus lots of sediment so the decant is necessary anyway). Great pairing with an Easter roast beef and mushrooms. Nice darker fruit. Tannins still quite there - could take another ~5 years. Nice acid on the finish and always appreciate the < 14% abv. — 18 days ago
305 group annual 10 yr Napa cab retrospective — 22 days ago
1998 not the best Napa Cabernet vintage. However, good producers still find their way through difficult vintages. Joseph Phelps is the rule rather than the exception.
This was poured out of magnum and drinking beautifully by their Hospitality Manger.
Nicely ripe, lush juicy fruits of blackberries, blackberries, both plums, some purple & blue fruits. Dash of spice & lead pencil, anise-black licorice, soft baking spices, caramel notes, some dark chocolate, fresh dark flowers, round acidity and a well balanced, softened structure & tension, elegant, nicely evolved finish that lasted a full minute. — 11 days ago
Wonderful wine. One of my favorite vineyards. This is always a high quality wine. This one is still young but getting its legs. Vibrant and fresh if not yet rounded out. There is complexity that will only build. The length is good now but I know will be significantly longer in near term. Cherry. Fig. Eucalyptus. Loved this wine. Looking forward to sampling the next few I have over ensuing decade. — 20 days ago
Jess
Deeep purple color.
Aromas of baked blueberry, blackberry, green bell pepper, hint of vanilla.
Dry. Flavors of cassis, vanilla, cedar, licorice. Medium-rich, chewy tannins.
Intensity: 4/5
Complexity: 3/5
Balance: 5/5
Finish: 5/5 — 9 days ago