Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard 2017

WA96+: The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard is composed of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot. It was aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Deep garnet-purple colored, it needs a little coaxing before it charges out of the glass with bold expressions of crème de cassis, boysenberries and black cherry preserves plus suggestions of cast-iron pan, violets, allspice and sandalwood with a touch of fragrant earth. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is absolutely packed with muscular black fruit preserves flavors, beautifully supported by finely grained tannins and lovely freshness, finishing with loads of mineral and spice fireworks.

JD95-97+: Lastly, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard shows plenty of similarities to the 2016 with its classic black and blue fruits, violets, crushed rocks, and assort floral notes. It’s fresh, full-bodied, concentrated, and has a great finish. It doesn’t have the pure sex appeal of the 2015 nor the concentration of the 2016, yet it’s perfectly balanced, seamless, and as classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon as it gets.