The Joseph Phelps offerings from Napa include the 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, one of their finest Sauvignons over recent vintages. Fresh fig, melon, and lemon grass notes as well as good depth and abundant fruit are found in this pure, lively, vibrant, medium-bodied Sauvignon. Enjoy it over the next 1-2 years. The Freestone Vineyard, a 100-acre, cool climate site planted on the Sonoma Coast by Joseph Phelps, is finally coming into production, offering consumers a bevy of different Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. There are three Chardonnay offerings, all of which emphasize the minerality and citrusy characteristics of this varietal with little intrusive oak, despite the fact that they are barrel-fermented and aged primarily in new French oak. The Cabernet Sauvignon program consists of three wines, the Cabernet Sauvignon, their famous proprietary red wine called Insignia, and their single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from the western hillsides of Oakville, called Backus. The regular Cabernet is a solidly made, reliable effort usually comprised of about 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Petit Verdot, and occasionally Malbec. The single vineyard offering comes from Oakville’s Backus Vineyard. There are typically 1,500-2,500 cases produced from this biodynamically farmed vineyard. Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831

The acidity is so high, it’s tingly, and doesn’t feel entirely natural given the wine’s ripeness. The flavors offer a burst of lemons, limes, spearmint and vanilla. Ready now.——S.H.(5/1/2009)—— 86