2022 Château Phélan Ségur

The 2022 Phélan Ségur comes from a growing season that was not straightforward due to the hail in June that cost 30% of production. This obliged the team to reconfigure the blend, as the first trials were found to be too rich and tannic. But the depleted yields produced an outstanding wine that will vie with the 2020 as a benchmark for the estate. The 2022 is actually quite understated on the nose with fine delineation of blackberry, bilberry, pencil lead and light forest floor scents. The palate is very well balanced with pliant tannins and a keen line of acidity, gently spiced with black truffle and subtle peppery notes toward the well-knit finish. This is an outstanding Saint-Estèphe that you would assume comes from a cooler growing season. Given market prices, this comes recommended.

- Neal Martin (01/2025)

A very structured red for Phelan Segur with incredibly powerful tannins that are long and linear. At the same time, there's deep, dark fruit underneath. Blackcurrants and blackberries. Medium-bodied with lots of grape phenolics and a palate full of dried spices. It's very muscular yet toned and balanced. 56% merlot, 40% cabernet sauvignon, 2% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot. A Phelan for the long term. Old-school in a modern way. Best after 2029. (01/2025)

Looking at the Grand Vin, the 2022 Château Phelan Segur checks in as 56% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that comes from a slightly different mix of their estate parcels and saw a shorter maceration followed by 18 months in 55% new French oak. Rocking aromatics of crème de cassis, spring flowers, spicy oak, and hints of smoky tobacco define the bouquet. It's full-bodied, pure, and elegant on the palate, with a seamless, layered mouthfeel, gorgeous tannins, and a great finish. This remarkably textured, balanced 2022 will keep for 20-25 years. (02/2025)