Bob McDonald

9.1

Very dark in colour - almost black. Lots of everything - ripeness, oak, blackberry, dark chocolate. The sort of wine I would have loved in my 20’s, not so much in my 70’s. Not for lovers of delicate wine - this is full throttle. This Australian producer is probably better known in the USA than Australia - like Mollydooker. A full bodied palate with M plus intensity and grainy tannins. Ranked No. 3 in Wine Spectators Top 100 wines of 2012. Not sure that extended cellaring will make a huge difference but will try to have the last one in early 2027. — 14 days ago

David T

Independent Sommelier/Wine Educator

9.4

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. — 12 days ago

Robert Stackowiak

9.0

A well done blend honoring their winemaking history. January 2024. — 3 months ago

Jess

9.2

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 — 10 days ago

Anne Richardson

8.9

A very pleasant Pinot Noir! We enjoyed along with a meal and all on its own. Would buy it, again. Flavors of cherry, raspberry and vanilla. — a month ago

Chase visser

9.7

Loved this wine. Would go great with gamey meats. — 2 months ago

Robert Ahlstrom

8.9

Deep ruby/purple opaque, pepper, tobacco and red fruit, lovely Shiraz — a month ago

Vicki Ausloos

9.1

Very smooth Nice finish of cherry and blackberry — 15 days ago

Patrick O Driscoll

9.6

Nice wine for its age, subtle with a light nose — a month ago

Frank Kuo

9.2

Color of deep purple with lighter shades on the rim. Nice tears. Nose of ample fragrance of currants. minty, vanilla, oaky, sweet note, and some more dark fruits. Taste is mouthful and chewy, quite sweet mixed with some spice, acidity, tart, strawberry, and some more vanilla. Aftertaste shows more strawberry, tangy, and a bit marginal tannin. On par. Like all the Freakshow wine, a bit too sweet for me. — 2 months ago