February 22, 2024 - Rich, smooth and concentrated with blackberry, currant and plum. Still young. Could use a bit more of an acidic bite.
December 12, 2023 - PnP. Same tasting notes as my last bottle, though this one was extra smooth but still had some freshness at the end. Not overly extracted, which I like. Seems like it’s at the apex but could hold here for a couple years.
November 11, 2023 - Medium dark red color. Fragrant herb, tobacco, cassis, and hint of balsamic in the bouquet. Very complex. On the palate, it’s has a smooth, soft, entry. Medium to full-bodied with ripe dark fruit. Mild tannins in the finish, it’s very enjoyable for current drinking. Excellent varietal definition and very good length.
The Phelps “standard” Cabernet Sauvignon bottling is one of the best and most consistent around. I often prefer it to many California reserve Cabernets than can often be too oaky and over extracted for my taste. This wine is right in my wheelhouse and an excellent value as well.
September 16, 2023 - We have found the regular old Phelps cab's to age wonderfully. Doesn't matter what vintage. They easily age at least 10 years, and drink silky smooth.
September 15, 2023 - 3 more years in the cellar made a big difference.
August 6, 2023 - Deep red plum color, "Dusty" nose with the slightest suggestion of mint. Very mellow feel on the tongue. Light hit of mixed fruits. Noticeable earthiness, or, maybe, charcoal under the rear palate. Tannin is, pretty much, resolved.
April 1, 2023 - Drinking nicely at this point.
December 24, 2022 - Opening a special bottle for Christmas Eve and this does not disappoint. Gave about 2h air, not entirely sure that was necessary. Inky ruby color. Raspberry, blackberry, dark chocolate, forest floor and white pepper on the nose. Creamy texture, full-bodied, with firm chalky tannins that could still resolve a bit. Deep flavors of red and black berry, with a funky leather streak through the lingering finish. But this has grace and depth in equal measure, very much an iron fist in a velvet glove.
December 4, 2022 - My last bottle was in 2018 and this has evolved nicely and gained a few more points in our book!
June 28, 2022 - Day 1 : 92 pts.
Day 2 : 93 pts.
It needs more time to mellow down the tannins.