Joseph Phelps Vineyards

Joseph Phelps Vineyards Review

Although an appointment is required for tastings at the winery started by the legendary Joseph Phelps—his son Bill now runs the operation—it's well worth the effort. In fair weather, the casual, self-paced wine tastings are held on the terrace of a modern barnlike building with stunning views down the slopes over oak trees and orderly vines. Phelps makes fine whites, but the blockbuster wines are reds, particularly the Cabernet Sauvignon and the flagship Bordeaux-style blend called Insignia. The luscious-yet-subtle Insignia sells for more than $200 a bottle. Luckily, all tastings include the current vintage. The 90-minute seminars include one on wine-and-cheese pairing and another focusing on blending (both $75). In the latter you mix the various varietals that go into the Insignia blend.