Château Phélan Segur 2021

VERTDEVIN

The nose is fruity, floral, slightly tight and reveals fine power, intensity and concentration. There are notes of pulpy cherry, fleshy redcurrant and, more slightly, pulpy/fresh blackcurrant combined with fine hints of liquorice (almost star anise), racy minerality and a subtle hint of fresh nutmeg. The palate is fruity and demonstrates fleshiness, a nice acidic backbone, pulpiness, a nice minerality, tension, precision, a nice fine fatness, a fine crispness (gives dynamism, with acidity) as well as a good work on the positive bitter taste. On the palate this wine expresses notes of small pulpy/acidic red berries, crisp raspberry and more lightly lily, iris combined with delicate touches of crisp blackcurrant, fine varietal tips, racy minerality as well as subtle notes of cola/zan and a very discreet hint of pepper (in the background). The tannins are mellow as well as a fine firmness at the same time. Generous freshness and control. A very discreet hint of chocolate/tonka bean in the background/persistence.

Decanter Magazine

One of the absolute standouts for me this year. A dark and brooding nose with purity and concentration. The palate is finely textured with mineral-laced tannins that give grip in the mouth but letting the nuances of fruit and acidity play out in harmony. I love the intensity, it's rich but perfectly executed - elegant and finessed with balance and charm but above all a sense of energy and freshness that makes it one of the more memorable wines. Despite the challenges of the vintage, the fruit is ripe and dense and this gives no drop in the mid palate, sustaining pace and directness from start to finish. This is the first time to have such high percentages of both Cabernet Sauvignon (75%) and Petit Verdot (4%) in the blend. A gorgeous wine that has such promise. A surefire must buy and what should be great value too. Tasted twice and both times this was delicious with exceptional freshness and longevity.

James Suckling

Plenty of cabernet character with currant and blackberry and some fresh-herb undertones. Medium body. Fine, firm tannins. Refined and together. Oyster shell and hints of spices such as cloves and white pepper. Tapenade. Typical for the appellation. 75% cabernet sauvignon, 4% petit verdot and 21% merlot.

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

Unfurling in the glass with aromas of dark berries, plums and cherries mingled with notions of rose petals, pipe tobacco, sweet spices and loamy soil, the 2021 Phélan Ségur is medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with impressive depth at the core, ripe tannins and lively acids, concluding with a long, saline finish. Concentrated and well-constructed, this is a serious wine with a bright future ahead of it. It's a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. Tasted five times, twice at the estate.

TIM ATKIN