Chateau Phélan Ségur Saint Estephe 2018 Single Bottle
Country: France Region: Bordeaux (Saint Estephe)
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 Château Phélan-Ségur 2018 blends Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) and Merlot (43%). At the tasting, the wine displays an intense ruby red colour in the glass, with bright violet reflections. A very expressive nose offers delicious aromas of ripe red fruit, with hints of plum and ripe cherry. The wine caresses the palate right after the entry, and shows off a generous and juicy texture. This wine has an exceptionally powerful tannic structure with round, polished tannins. Crunchy and juicy, the mid-palate retains beautiful fruit and a length that lingers with toasty notes and hints of espresso. A great, intense and concentrated Saint-Estèphe that will age wonderfully well over the years.
