Dark ruby with no evidence of bricking. Initial aromas included some almost overpowering cough syrup sweetness. This quickly subsided but did not disappear; rather it was joined and mostly overshadowed by typical dark berry cabernet fruit. On the palate there is anise, leather, blackberry, and a trace of pencil lead. The finish is fairly long and is framed by sweet but firm tannins. This is drinking very well and will only get better for the next few years I suspect, glad I have a few more. CN95.

This is why I have a wine cellar.

CabNut

CN, I liked this wine when I had it 1.5 years ago but, like you now, found that this would be a very long-lived wine and guessed it would probably be in prime drinking either starting about now or in a year or two from now. I don't think I would have rated the wine quite as highly as you, but my impressions were very similar in describing the wine's character.

a

1995 Joseph Phelps Insignia - USA, California, Napa Valley
Atlanta Vielles Vignes – Bone’s and Cabs (Bone's Restaurant, Atlanta, GA): Slightly reticent nose. Dark, brooding black fruits and cassis and spice with great density in lieu of depth and significant tannins. Has a hint of violet. The finish was pleasant enough, but disappointing. This just had to be closed or a slightly off bottle – not what I had expected. S90 3/28/2006