2003 Ch. Phélan Ségur, St Estèphe

Simon Staples’ tasting note for this wine begins simply, ‘wow!’. A rigorous selection, both during the harvest but also beforehand in the vineyard, by Thierry Gardinier and his team, has reaped dividends at this rejuvenated estate on the outskirts of the town of St Estèphe. Made from 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Merlot, this impressive wine boasts an intense, sweet, toasted nose of rich black fruits followed by a fresh palate of pure, concentrated fruit that epitomises the St Estèphe terroir. Given the price, this is surely a must-have for any cellar.