At a glance

Producer

Joseph Phelps Vineyards

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$75-$95 USD

Tasting profile

Vibrant blackcurrant, blackberry, cassis, violet, cedar, sweet tobacco, baking spice. Youthful and primary.

Evolution: Five+ years will reveal greater integration, revealing graphite, mocha, earth, and supple texture.

At peak: Red and black fruit integration, tertiary character, seamless oak; silky yet persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium+ to high, vibrant and supporting aging

Tannins

Medium to high, ripe, fine-grained

Alcohol

Approx. 14.5% ABV, balanced for region

Aging potential

15-20 years in proper conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2036

Optimal window

2025 to 2040

Current status

Young, structured, benefits from further cellaring.

Current condition

Primary fruit, firm tannins, notably fresh acidity. Decanting advised.

While approachable with decanting now, the wine will reach harmony after 5-7 years, with peak complexity and softening structure from 2028 onward, holding well through 2040.

Food pairing

Prime rib, grilled lamb, roasted duck, aged cheddar, wild mushrooms, and herb-crusted rack of lamb.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium to high tannins which can benefit from aeration to soften and enhance its flavors, especially given its youth.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Regenerative farming, vineyard biodiversity, advanced water management, solar energy investment, eco-friendly packaging (lightweight bottles, recycled carton).

Joseph Phelps is an industry leader in Napa sustainability, holding Napa Green certifications for winery and vineyard, and implementing climate-positive practices (cover crops, composting, water recycling, energy reduction). No USDA/NOP organic or Demeter biodynamic status. Packaging and renewable energy further boost its score, but the absence of full organic/biodynamic and the global demand’s shipping impact hold back a perfect sustainability rating.