Château Phélan Ségur 1995 represents a distinguished expression from the Saint-Estèphe appellation, a northern Médoc commune renowned for producing wines of significant structure and longevity. The estate's vineyards, characterised by deep gravel over clay subsoils, benefit from their proximity to the Gironde estuary, contributing to a microclimate conducive to optimal grape ripening.
The 1995 vintage in Bordeaux was particularly favourable for the Left Bank, yielding wines with excellent concentration and tannic framework. Phélan Ségur, an unclassified growth often lauded for its consistent quality, typically crafts a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, aged in a judicious proportion of new and seasoned French oak barrels. This vintage offers a mature insight into the estate's classic winemaking philosophy, showcasing the potential for graceful evolution.
Tasting notes
The 1995 Château Phélan Ségur, now approaching three decades of age, presents a complex aromatic profile indicative of a well-aged Saint-Estèphe. Initial notes of dried blackcurrant and plum are gracefully interwoven with tertiary nuances of cedar, cigar box, and damp earth. On the palate, it reveals a medium-bodied structure with resolved, silky tannins and a persistent acidity that maintains freshness. Flavours echo the nose, with an added layer of leather and subtle spice, culminating in a long, elegant finish. This vintage is at a beautiful stage of maturity, offering both intellectual depth and drinking pleasure.