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07/19/2001 Archived Entry: "Wine Buy: Joseph Phelps Red Pastiche"

Joseph Phelps, Red Pastiche, 1999 drinks just how we like our summer red wines to: It packs lots of power, but doesn’t overwhelm. It is bold, yet soft and likeable. This big, rich red wine is produced at the Joseph Phelps Vineyard in Spring Valley, California by winemaker Craig Williams. The Joseph Phelps vineyard has enjoyed a great reputation for producing high quality wines since it’s founding in 1972. In fact, their commitment to producing a superb product is emblazoned on the main page of their website: www.jpvwines.com - “excellence from the ground up.”

The Red Pastiche is crafted in the style of a Côtes du Rhône blend and is a blend of 39% Grenache Rosé, 23% Mourvèdre, 11% Merlot, 11% Syrah, 9% Zinfandel, 5% Pinot Noir, and 2% Alicante Bouschet. It would be great served this summer along side grilled foods such as ribs or spicy dishes.

At about $13.99 it may not seem like a bargain, but, says Carol Berman, it drinks more like a $25 to $30 bottle. It is widely distributed, so you should have no trouble finding it at good wine merchants.