It seems Insignia is moving in the direction of other big Napa Valley reds, with richness and suppleness crowding out structure as dominant characteristics. This vintage of Insignia will no doubt be a crowd-pleaser, however, because it’s simply delicious to drink now, though I am skeptical of its long-term (15-20 years) prospects. Exhibiting layers of blackberry and cassis fruit, with an overlay of sweet oak, spice and mocha, and ultra-smooth tannins, the soft, supple ’09 Insignia is pure joy at this moment in time.
Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Napa Valley (California) 2009
By Robert Whitley