Chateau Phélan Ségur Saint Estephe 2018 in Wood
Country: France Region: Bordeaux
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) and Merlot (43%)
Vintage: 2018 Colour: Red Style: Dry
Producer: Chateau Phelan Segur
Description:
One of Saint Estephe’s benchmark producers, Phelan Segur was founded by Bernard Phelan who united two neighbouring properties, Clos de Garramey and Segur, and added his name in keeping with the traditions of the time. In 1860 his son, Frank Phelan, built the stunning country house on the estate which by this time was the largest in the Saint Estephe appellation. In 2017 the property sold for a record €90 million to Belgian investor Philippe Van de Vyvere.
Today the property has 70 hectares of vineyards planted on exceptional terroir, sitting on a ridge of clay and gravel soils above the Gironde estuary. As the saying goes, “the greatest terroirs look to the water”, and Phelan Segur’s wines offer both power and character with excellent potential for extended ageing in the cellar over the next decade and beyond.
The estate’s Grand Vin is primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon along with a smaller proportion of Merlot and a drop of Cabernet Franc. To allow for precise blending, each parcel of vines is vinified separately with ageing taking place in 50% new French oak barrels for 16-18 months. This helps to soften the firm tannins and add subtle hints of woodsmoke and spice to the luscious cassis, blackberry and dark plum fruit.
Tasting Note: The 2018 vintage expresses a nose of great complexity with aromas of ripe red fruits and some toasted and liquorice notes. On the palate, the remarkable thickness of the attack is perfectly matched by the fleshy and crisp fruit of the mid-palate. The harmonious blend remains taut thanks to a beautiful freshness at the end of the tasting and a great aromatic power. This is a generous vintage with exceptional tannic power supported by a volume of rare density.
