2005 Joseph Phelps Syrah Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
Good deep ruby-red. Sexy aromas of cassis, game, licorice and gingerbread. Fresh and spicy, with noteworthy intensity and definition to the dark fruit, mineral and floral flavors. Firmly built syrah, in need of a year or so of patience.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
From Larry Hyde’s cool Carneros vineyard, the 2005 Syrah exhibits scents of camphor, tar, blackberries, and cherries. Because of the cool vintage conditions, it is a more elegant example of this wine, but it possesses savory fruit and vibrancy along with crisp acidity. Not yet released. Previously recommended: 2002 Insignia (95), 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard (96+). Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831
About the producer

California winery Joseph Phelps is best known for its flagship Insignia cuvée, one of the first and finest proprietary red wines in the Napa Valley.