PHELAN SEGUR 2005

The 2005 Château Phelan Segur is a beauty, and certainly shows the quality and potential of this terrific terroir. Based on 50% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon (the Petit Verdot wasn’t included in the blend until 2020), its ruby/plum hue is followed by terrific aromatics of blackcurrants, roasted herbs, tobacco, and spicy, leathery, subtle earthy nuances. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, textured, beautifully balanced, and with elegant tannins, drink this brilliant Saint-Estephe over the coming 10-15 years.

Robert Parker scored this wine but space limitations did not allow him to publish tasting notes. He did, however, write about this wine and all the other cru bourgeois that he scored that: "2005 is the finest vintage for these wines since 1982. The range of scores for these wines should give readers an idea of just how consistent this vintage is at this level. Given the style of the vintage, most of these wines should be accessible young yet evolve for a decade or more because of their concentration and tannic structure."