1983 Joseph Phelps Cabernet

Phelps Cabs have been great, see my earlier post on the 2005. The Insignia, Phelps top end Bordeaux style, is a signature wine from Napa and even with the volume produced it is a consistently great wine. This 1983 should have been drunk 10 years ago (just a guess). Today it exists only as tannin, acid and the remnants of flavor beaten out of existence for the most part. Kind of a sour port. A friend shared it with me, it had been kept in good storage conditions since purchase and did not taste as though the bottle had turned. It was just well past any prime and unlike some older wines where everything has faded and leaves a subtle pleasing flavor, this is just the bitter elements. It was only $13 back in the day.

Back in awhile.

leh

2005 Joseph Phelps Cabernet

Opened this four nights ago. It was a power packed fruit rush. Many flavors blending very naturally like a bowl of perfectly ripened fresh fruit. Nice finish, very enjoyable to drink, even this young. Bought at Safeway for something under $50.

Tonight I am trying another glass. I leave reds on the counter at room temp after opening. I come back to them after a day or two or four. If they are turned, they end up in the sink, if not I try them again. This one has evolved into something complex, almost Bordeaux like in acid and fruit and tannin which must have been overpowered by the fruit when fresh. Another very nice glass of wine.

Back in awhile.

leh