While visiting Napa Valley, Joseph Phelps fell in love with these virgin vineyards. A visionary and a pioneer, Joseph Phelps was convinced that he could produce fine wines by investing relentless energy and attention into them. In 1973, Joseph Phelps decided to found his own winery by taking over the running of 600 acres of land (over 240 hectares) on a ranch located to the east of Saint Helena, in California’s Napa County, in the western part of the United States.

With the help of winemaker Walter Schug, Joseph Phelps planted nearly 100 acres of vines (40 hectares). A great lover and collector of Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, Joseph Phelps became the first to produce a single-vineyard 100% Syrah wine in 1974. Passionate about the style of Rhône Valley wines, Joseph Phelps innovated by producing typical Rhône blends, particularly using the Viognier varietal.

In 1974, Joseph Phelps created his iconic wine: Insignia. This legendary wine, comprising the tradition Bordeaux-style blend, was revolutionary for its time and comprised the finest plots of its vintage.

A true ambassador for fine Californian wines, the Joseph Phelps estate is one of the Napa Valley's leading references.

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