Joseph Phelps Vineyards is one of Napa Valley’s most influential wineries, founded in 1973 by Joseph Phelps, a Colorado construction magnate who fell in love with wine and vineyards. From the beginning, Phelps set out to craft wines that would rival the best in the world, combining Napa’s natural potential with vision and innovation.

The winery’s most famous creation is Insignia, first produced in 1974. It was the first proprietary Bordeaux-style blend in Napa Valley, made from estate-grown grapes and released under a brand name rather than a varietal label. Insignia became a benchmark wine, earning international acclaim and multiple perfect scores from critics, and it helped establish Napa as a world-class region capable of producing wines on par with Bordeaux’s greatest estates.

Beyond Insignia, Joseph Phelps produces highly regarded Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Rhône varietals, sourced from estate vineyards spread across Napa Valley and the Sonoma Coast. The emphasis is on estate control, sustainability, and meticulous vineyard management, ensuring consistency and quality across vintages.

The winery itself, located in St. Helena, embodies the blend of tradition and modern Napa culture, offering an elevated but welcoming experience. Even after Joseph Phelps’ passing in 2015, his vision continues through family stewardship and a dedicated winemaking team.

As a brand, Joseph Phelps represents Napa Valley excellence, innovation, and legacy. It is both a pioneer and a standard-bearer, known for producing wines that combine power, elegance, and longevity, with Insignia standing as one of the great icons of American wine.