Château Phélan Ségur 2016

Appellation: Saint-Estèphe - Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel (neighbouring Montrose and Calon-Ségur)

Vintage: 2016

Blend: Approximately 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, small touches of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot

Ageing: 16-18 months in 50% new barrels; when fully mature, vinify by hand to preserve the integrity of the berries

Tasting

Colour: Deep garnet with purple highlights.

Nose: Complex and typically Saint-Estèphe - blackcurrant, blackberry, graphite, liquorice, cedar wood, smoke, lavender, mint; marked earthy/mineral note

Palate: Concentrated attack, firm but silky tannins; dark fruity palette (blackcurrant, plum, cherry), spices (clove, tobacco, coffee), mineral salinity, long persistent finish

Scores & expert comments

- Heiner Lobenberg: 95-96+ pts - Bettane: 19/20

- Bettane: 19/20 -

- Gabriel: 19/20

- James Suckling: 95 pts - Decanter: 94 pts

- Decanter: 94 pts -

- Robert Parker (LPB): 92 pts.

- Wine Spectator: 93 pts -

- Wine Enthusiast: 92-94 pts.

- Vinous (A. Galloni): 91-94 points

- Jancis Robinson: 17/20 -

Food & wine pairing

Superb with grilled red meats, roast lamb, game, dishes in sauce, wild mushrooms and strong cheeses. Decant and serve at 16-18°C.