Phelan Segur Frank Phelan 2019 (750ML)

A cool, rainy spring gave way to a hot, dry summer of storms and heat waves in 2019 at Phélan Ségur, the Saint-Estèphe estate owned by Philippe Van de Vyvere, and its clay-and-gravel soils kept the vines clear of serious water stress. Frank Phélan, the château’s second wine, was picked from 24 September to 10 October in perfect health, then blended from 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot and aged 14 months in barrel. With a pH of 3.9, it is ripe, round and made to drink early. Cassis, black cherry and damson mix with old rose, cedar, dried herbs and a hint of lavender. The palate is mid-weight and fleshy, with supple tannins lending shape and the vintage’s freshness lifting a mouthwatering finish. Critics see it drinking well through 2032. Pour it with steak frites, a wild mushroom tart or aged Mimolette.