| Producer | Chateau Phelan Segur |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Subregion | Saint-Estephe |
| Varietal | Red Bordeaux Blend |
| Vintage | 2012 |
| Sku | 14073 |
| Size | 375ml |
Deep red with purple reflections. Nose of great complexity, combining aromas of blackberry, cherry and fleshy strawberry. On aeration, the nose reveals toasted and liquorice notes. The palate shows a smooth attack with a remarkable consistency and freshness, leading to a powerful finish of exceptional length. The wine is built on a dense tannic structure and shows a perfect harmony throughout the tasting.
Lots of violet, sandalwood, currant and tar character. Subtle and pretty. Full body, fine tannins and a balanced and fresh finish. Pretty wine. Hard not to drink now. Better in 2018.
As is often the case with Phélan Ségur, there is an excess of wood in this wine. Sometimes it works, as here, because the big, bold fruits are powerful enough to match the toastiness. That suggests a future as a ripe, black-fruited and structured wine with room for juicy acidity. Drink from 2019. -R.V.