Are you staying at the Windsor Boutique Hotel and looking for a truly exceptional wine experience? Look no further than Metro Wines, your premier neighborhood source for fine wines in downtown Asheville. Located at 169 Charlotte Street, our boutique wine shop offers an unparalleled selection of wines from around the world, including the prestigious Joseph Phelps Insignia—a legendary Napa Valley Cabernet blend that exemplifies the pinnacle of American winemaking excellence.
At Metro Wines, we believe that finding the perfect bottle should be a delightful journey, not an intimidating experience. Whether you're a seasoned collector seeking that special bottle of Joseph Phelps Insignia or a curious novice exploring the world of fine wines, our expert staff is dedicated to providing personalized service that enhances your Asheville stay.
The Prestigious Joseph Phelps Insignia: A Wine of Distinction
Joseph Phelps Insignia stands as one of the most celebrated wines in American viticulture—a true icon that represents the vision and innovation of its founder, Joseph Phelps. As a pioneering force in Napa Valley winemaking, Phelps created Insignia in 1974 as California's first proprietary Bordeaux-style blend, forever changing the landscape of American fine wines.
The Heritage of Excellence
The story of Joseph Phelps Insignia reflects a remarkable journey:
- Created by Joseph Phelps, who transformed from a successful construction magnate to a visionary winemaker
- Introduced in 1974 as one of America's first proprietary red Bordeaux-style blends
- Crafted primarily from estate-grown grapes from premier Napa Valley vineyards
- Consistently rated among the world's finest wines by renowned critics
- A collection of vintages that have earned perfect 100-point scores
Tasting Profile and Character
Each vintage of Joseph Phelps Insignia offers a distinctive yet consistently exceptional experience:
- Appearance: Deep, intense color with vibrant ruby to purple hues
- Aroma: Complex bouquet featuring dark fruits, cedar, mocha, and subtle spice notes
- Palate: Remarkable balance of power and elegance with layered flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and cassis
- Finish: Long, lingering finish with polished tannins that promise exceptional aging potential
- Structure: Perfectly integrated oak influence that complements rather than overwhelms the fruit character
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion at the Windsor Boutique Hotel or simply want to experience one of Napa Valley's most prestigious wines during your Asheville stay, Joseph Phelps Insignia represents a pinnacle of winemaking artistry that Metro Wines is proud to offer our discerning customers.
Metro Wines: Bringing Fine Wine Culture to Downtown Asheville
Since opening our doors in April 2013, Metro Wines has established itself as Asheville's premier destination for wine enthusiasts. Owned and operated by John Kerr and Gina Trippi, our shop has been voted the #1 wine shop in Asheville for seven consecutive years—an achievement that reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in selection, service, and value.
Our Boutique Shop Experience
What sets Metro Wines apart is our unique approach to wine retail:
- Inviting Atmosphere: A welcoming space designed for comfortable browsing and discovery
- Curated Selection: Thoughtfully chosen wines from around the world, from affordable everyday options to rare collector's items
- Expert Staff: Knowledgeable sommeliers always on duty to provide personalized recommendations
- Educational Focus: Regular tasting events and classes to enhance your wine appreciation
- Community Connection: A gathering place for wine lovers to share their passion
We believe wine is about community, family, and friends—a philosophy that shapes everything we do at Metro Wines. Our boutique shop experience offers the perfect balance of big-shop selection with small-shop service, creating a wine destination that feels both sophisticated and approachable.
Expert Staff Guidance: Your Personal Wine Concierge
At Metro Wines, we understand that finding the perfect bottle—especially a prestigious selection like Joseph Phelps Insignia—can sometimes feel overwhelming. That's why we ensure there's always a sommelier on duty to provide expert guidance tailored to your preferences, occasion, and budget.
Our Approach to Personalized Service
Our team brings extensive knowledge and a passion for wine to every customer interaction:
- Listening First: We begin by understanding your preferences and needs
- Educational Approach: We share insights about regions, producers, and styles without pretension
- Perfect Pairing Advice: We help match wines with your dining plans or special occasions
- Investment Guidance: For collector's items like Joseph Phelps Insignia, we offer advice on vintages and aging potential
- Ongoing Relationship: We remember your preferences for future visits
Whether you're seeking Joseph Phelps Insignia or exploring other fine wine options, our expert staff serves as your personal wine concierge, making the selection process enjoyable and informative.
Convenient Delivery to Your Doorstep
We understand that convenience matters, especially when you're enjoying a stay at the Windsor Boutique Hotel or another downtown Asheville accommodation. That's why Metro Wines offers local delivery service, bringing exceptional wines—including Joseph Phelps Insignia—directly to your doorstep.
Our Delivery Options
Our streamlined delivery service makes enjoying fine wine effortless:
- Hotel Delivery: Direct delivery to your hotel room at the Windsor or other nearby accommodations
- Same-Day Service: Quick response for those special occasions that arise unexpectedly
- Scheduled Delivery: Plan ahead for special dinners or events during your stay
- Gift Delivery: Perfect for sending a special bottle to someone celebrating in Asheville
- Event Support: Comprehensive wine delivery for larger gatherings or celebrations
When you're looking for the convenience of having Joseph Phelps Insignia or other fine wines delivered directly to your door, Metro Wines makes the process simple and efficient, enhancing your Asheville experience without adding stress or hassle.
Read testimonials from our customers here!
Beyond Joseph Phelps: Exploring Our Premium Wine Selection
While Joseph Phelps Insignia represents a pinnacle of winemaking excellence, Metro Wines offers an extensive selection of other premium and collectible wines that appeal to discerning palates. Our carefully curated inventory includes exceptional options from renowned producers worldwide.
Highlighted Collections
Explore our diverse premium wine offerings:
- Napa Valley Icons: Alongside Joseph Phelps Insignia, discover other legendary Napa producers
- International Treasures: First-growth Bordeaux, Grand Cru Burgundy, and Super Tuscans
- Rare Vintages: Limited-release wines from exceptional years
- Emerging Regions: Discover tomorrow's classics from up-and-coming wine regions
- Local Selections: Premium wines from North Carolina vineyards
Each bottle in our premium selection is chosen with care, representing exceptional quality and distinctive character. Our staff can guide you through these options, helping you discover new favorites while appreciating established classics like Joseph Phelps Insignia.
The Windsor Hotel Connection: Wine for Your Luxury Stay
The Windsor Boutique Hotel, with its upscale accommodations and prime downtown location, attracts discerning travelers who appreciate the finer things in life. Metro Wines serves as the perfect complement to this luxury experience, providing access to exceptional wines that enhance your Asheville stay.
Enhancing Your Windsor Hotel Experience
We understand what makes a stay at the Windsor special:
- Proximity and Convenience: Located just a short distance from your accommodations
- Complementary Luxury: Fine wines that match the sophistication of your hotel experience
- Local Expertise: Recommendations for pairing our wines with nearby restaurants
- Special Occasion Support: Assistance with celebration planning, from anniversaries to proposals
- Welcome Packages: Custom wine selections to greet you upon arrival at the hotel
When you choose the Windsor Boutique Hotel for your Asheville visit, Metro Wines becomes your natural partner for elevating your experience through exceptional wines like Joseph Phelps Insignia and other premium selections.
Wine Education and Appreciation
At Metro Wines, we believe that understanding enhances enjoyment. That's why we offer various opportunities for wine education and appreciation, helping you deepen your knowledge whether you're a novice or connoisseur.
Learning Opportunities
Expand your wine knowledge through our educational offerings:
- Guided Tastings: Experience different wines, including premium selections, with expert commentary
- Wine Classes: Structured learning experiences that build your wine knowledge
- Producer Events: Meet winemakers and representatives from renowned wineries
- Pairing Demonstrations: Learn the principles of matching wine with food
- Individual Consultations: One-on-one guidance for developing your palate
These educational experiences create a deeper connection to the wines you enjoy, including prestigious selections like Joseph Phelps Insignia. By understanding the context, craftsmanship, and character of fine wines, you'll gain a richer appreciation that enhances every glass.
Experience Premium Wine Pairings at Quench! Wine Bistro
Elevate your Windsor Boutique Hotel experience by discovering how exceptional wines like Joseph Phelps Insignia pair with expertly crafted cuisine at Quench! Asheville Wine Bistro, owned by the same owners as Metro Wines. Located in the sophisticated Reynolds Village setting of North Asheville, Quench! Wine Bistro offers the perfect venue to experience premium wines in their ideal context—paired with Chef Sam's seasonal, farm-to-table menu that matches the caliber of wines you'll discover at Metro Wines.
The restaurant's perfect 5-star Google reviews and glowing Asheville Citizen-Times review reflect the same commitment to excellence that defines both the Windsor Hotel and Metro Wines. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion with a legendary Napa Valley Cabernet or exploring other fine wines from our collection, Quench! Wine Bistro provides an intimate setting where knowledgeable staff can guide you through sophisticated wine and food pairings.
Their Wednesday wine tastings from 4-6pm offer complimentary exploration of premium selections, allowing you to experience the artistry behind wines like Joseph Phelps Insignia before committing to full bottles, making it the perfect complement to your luxury Asheville experience.
The Metro Wines Case Club: For Wine Enthusiasts
For those who develop a passion for our selections, Metro Wines offers the Case Club—a flexible wine subscription service that brings exceptional wines to your door regularly. Unlike traditional wine clubs with predetermined selections, our Case Club is customized to your preferences and budget.
How Our Case Club Works
Our unique approach to wine subscription offers:
- Personalized Selection: Wines chosen based on your taste preferences
- Flexible Frequency: Monthly, quarterly, or custom scheduling options
- Budget Control: Selections tailored to your specified price range
- Discovery Focus: Introduction to new regions, producers, and styles that match your profile
- Expert Curation: Each case personally selected by our knowledgeable staff
Whether you're an Asheville resident or a frequent visitor, the Metro Wines Case Club provides a convenient way to maintain a well-stocked collection of wines you'll love, potentially including special allocations of limited-availability wines like Joseph Phelps Insignia.
Planning Your Visit to Metro Wines
We're conveniently located to serve visitors staying at the Windsor Boutique Hotel and throughout downtown Asheville. Planning your visit to Metro Wines is simple, and we're ready to welcome you with expertise and hospitality.
Visit Details
Everything you need to know for your visit:
- Location: 169 Charlotte Street, Asheville, NC 28801
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed Sunday)
- Parking: Free, close, and convenient parking available
- Contact: (828) 575-9525 for inquiries or to arrange delivery
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and shopping area
Located on the way to the Grove Park Inn, Metro Wines is easily accessible from the Windsor Boutique Hotel and other downtown accommodations. Whether you're walking from your hotel or driving from further afield, you'll find us ready to assist with your wine needs.
Supporting the Asheville Community
When you shop at Metro Wines, you're not just purchasing exceptional wines like Joseph Phelps Insignia—you're supporting a local business deeply committed to the Asheville community. Owners John Kerr and Gina Trippi established Metro Wines with a vision of giving back to the community they love.
Our Community Commitment
The ways Metro Wines contributes to Asheville:
- Local Employment: Providing jobs for area residents with wine knowledge and passion
- Charity Support: Generous donations to local charitable organizations
- Economic Investment: Keeping profits, taxes, and investments within the community
- Wine Culture: Enhancing Asheville's reputation as a destination for culinary excellence
- Educational Resources: Offering wine knowledge that elevates local dining and hospitality industries
By choosing Metro Wines for your fine wine needs, including prestigious selections like Joseph Phelps Insignia, you're participating in a virtuous cycle that strengthens the unique character and vitality of Asheville.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Joseph Phelps Insignia
Q: What makes Joseph Phelps Insignia special among Napa Valley wines?
A: Insignia was pioneering as one of California's first proprietary Bordeaux-style blends. Its consistent quality, aging potential, and balance of power with elegance have established it as a benchmark for American fine wine.
Q: How should I serve Joseph Phelps Insignia?
A: For optimal enjoyment, decant Insignia for 1-2 hours before serving at around 65°F (18°C). This allows the wine's complex aromas and flavors to fully develop.
Q: How long can I cellar Joseph Phelps Insignia?
A: Insignia is crafted for longevity. Most vintages will continue to develop favorably for 15-25 years under proper storage conditions, with exceptional vintages lasting even longer.
About Metro Wines
Q: Do you offer wine glasses or decanters for purchase or rental?
A: Yes, we offer a selection of quality glassware and decanters for purchase. For special occasions, we can arrange glassware rental through our local partners.
Q: Can you help me plan wine for a special dinner or event during my stay in Asheville?
A: Absolutely! Our staff excels at helping customers select the perfect wines for special occasions, including food pairing recommendations and quantity planning.
Q: Do you ship wines to other states if I want to send something home?
A: Yes, we can arrange shipping to most states where legally permitted. Our staff can provide details on shipping options, costs, and delivery timeframes.
Experience Metro Wines Today
Whether you're seeking the prestigious Joseph Phelps Insignia or exploring other fine wine options, Metro Wines offers the selection, expertise, and service to enhance your Asheville experience. Our convenient location near the Windsor Boutique Hotel makes us your ideal neighborhood wine source for exceptional beverages during your stay.
Visit us at 169 Charlotte Street to discover why we've been voted Asheville's #1 wine shop for seven consecutive years. Experience our boutique shop atmosphere, benefit from our expert staff guidance, and explore our outstanding selection—including the legendary Joseph Phelps Insignia.
Visit Metro Wines to explore our complete selection or contact us for personalized service. Find us at 169 Charlotte Street, conveniently located near the Windsor Boutique Hotel and on the way to the Grove Park Inn.