2016 Joseph Phelps Vineyards Backus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville 1x750ml

Robert Parker 98

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot, aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak and bottled in Jan 2019. Deep garnet-purple colored, it charges out of the gate with bold blackberry pie, black currant pastilles and warm blueberries notes with touches of menthol, mocha, cardamom, iron ore and cinnamon stick plus a waft of black olives. The full-bodied palate delivers mouth-coating black and blue fruits with a vast array of earth and spicy sparks, framed by firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. 2000 cases were made. [20/10/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2057

Vinous 96+

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard is absolutely magical. Sweet red and purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal and spice add perfume to a Backus that is remarkably light on its feet for a site that in the past has produced far more overt wines. The purity of the flavors is positively striking. This is the most refined, nuanced Backus I can remember tasting. Closing notes of aromatic freshness only add to the wine’s considerable allure. [Antonio Galloni, 14/12/2018]