Viniou Reviews
The Château Phélan Ségur 2014 is an exemplary red wine from the renowned Saint-Estèphe appellation in the Médoc subregion of Bordeaux, France. This wine is crafted from the Cuvée Saint-Estèphe blend, often predominantly featuring grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and sometimes smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The 2014 vintage is known for its balanced structure, offering both elegance and a firm tannic backbone. The terroir of Saint-Estèphe is characterised by its distinct gravel over clay soils, providing excellent drainage conducive to viticulture. This specific area benefits from a maritime climate, with the Gironde estuary helping to moderate temperatures, contributing to the wine's complex profile.
Bordeaux, particularly the Médoc region, boasts a rich winemaking history, famed for its ability to produce wines of remarkable longevity and depth. The region's diverse soils and temperate climate are essential contributors, allowing the grape varieties to achieve perfect ripeness while maintaining acidity.
When it comes to pairing, the Château Phélan Ségur 2014's robust and refined profile makes it an excellent companion for hearty dishes. Classic matches include lamb dishes such as roast lamb with rosemary or a rack of lamb. The wine’s tannins and acidity complement savoury beef dishes, such as a beef Wellington or grilled rib-eye steak. Regional French cuisine, such as duck confit or cassoulet, can also enhance the experience, offering a delightful balance with the wine's structure and flavour depth.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C. This allows the wine's full aroma spectrum, from dark fruits to subtle earthy notes, to be expressed. Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving can also help to soften its tannins and open up its bouquet, making the tasting experience even more pleasurable.
