The 2019 Insignia is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec. The vineyard sources this year include: 32% Yountville (Oak Knoll District), 23% Banca Dorada (Rutherford), 14% Suscol (South Napa Valley), 14% Home Ranch (St. Helena), 12% Las Rocas (Stags Leap District), 3% Barboza (Stags Leap District) and 2% El Venadito (Oak Knoll District). The wine is aging for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Deep garnet-purple in color, it needs a little swirling to unlock a gorgeous perfume of black cherry compote, stewed plums and blackcurrant pastilles with hints of bay leaves, red roses, underbrush and pencil lead plus a hint of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers impactful black fruit preserves layers with finely grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and layered. 18,000 cases are due to be made. (Tasted as a barrel sample.)

More elegant and refined than the Napa Cab, the 2019 Insignia features restrained cedar and vanilla notes (despite spending two years in 100% new French oak) and delicate herbal shadings accenting cassis and black cherry fruit. Full-bodied, velvety and somewhat open-knit on the palate, it turns plush and long on the finish, adding a touch of warmth. Production this year is approximately 17,000 cases, reflecting the increased volume coming from recently replanted vineyards. It's remarkable what a good job they continue to do with this bottling year after year, without compromising on quality.

The 2019 Insignia is a wine of tremendous energy and nuance. Bright red/purplish fruit, rose petal, mint and cinnamon give the 2019 terrific aromatic presence. In 2019, the blend is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec, with no Cabernet Franc. The 2019 has more body and depth than the 2018, but feels less opulent in terms of its ripeness. All the elements fall into place effortlessly in a deeply expressive, captivating Insignia that appears to have a very bright future.

93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec . Much like the Cabernet, the Insignia is quintessential Napa Cab. Cassis, almond extract and vanilla on the nose together with burning charcoal and cedar. The palate is brambly and rich, though with a little more freshness that adds a harmony not present in the straight Cabernet. Dense and structured with a firm finish underneath the plentiful, sweet fruit. This should improve with age. (TP)