The 2025 Phélan Ségur was picked between September 10 and 26 at 29 hl/ha, matured in 55% new oak barrels. Again, this is a Saint-Estèphe that is cut in a more mellow and classical style compared to the 2020 or 2022, for example. Mainly black fruit, the Cabernet-dominated scents of cedar and tobacco emerge within a couple of swirls, with just a light touch of tea leaves in the background. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine-boned tannins matched by a silver thread of acidity. Very well balanced and unequivocally in the more elegant style, without the concentration or voluptuousness of the 2022. This is more sleek and refined, ergo, an earlier-drinking Phélan Ségur that delivers elegance and refinement. Just a lovely Saint-Estèphe that was presumed vanquished by global warming.

By Neal Martin May 2026