Wines Saint-Estèphe Château Phélan Ségur - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Château Phélan Ségur 2015, a classic red wine from Saint-Estèphe AOC in the Médoc, stands as a testament to the estate’s reputation for elegance and structure. The 2015 vintage was marked by a warm, sunny growing season with well-timed rain in August, ensuring optimum ripeness for the predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend, with touches of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The terroir—a blend of gravelly soils with a clay subsoil—imparts both power and finesse, lending the wine its characteristic complexity. Vinification at Phélan Ségur is meticulous, using both traditional and modern techniques to emphasise purity of fruit, layered tannins and potential for graceful ageing. The resulting wine typically reveals aromas of ripe blackcurrant, plum and cassis, complemented by hints of cedar, graphite and spice, rounded out by a refined oak influence.

Situated in Bordeaux’s famous left bank, the Saint-Estèphe appellation is renowned for robust, deeply coloured reds with muscular tannins and impressive longevity. The region enjoys a temperate maritime climate, thanks to proximity to the Gironde estuary, which moderates temperature extremes and protects the vines. The gravelly soils, interspersed with clay, provide excellent drainage and contribute signature minerality and depth to the wines. Historically, Saint-Estèphe has produced wines celebrated for their structure and earthy notes, yet the 2015 vintage softens these traits with accessible fruit and velvety texture.

For food pairings, Château Phélan Ségur 2015 will shine alongside classic dishes such as roast rack of lamb, beef Wellington or a slow-cooked beef daube. Regional dishes like entrecôte à la bordelaise or duck confit also make outstanding companions. For cheese, opt for a mature Comté or aged British cheddar to match the wine’s depth and tannic frame. To appreciate its full spectrum, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving. Ideal tasting temperature is between 16-18°C to reveal both freshness and complexity, ensuring a rewarding experience, whether enjoyed now or after a few more years of cellaring.