Lots of violet, sandalwood, currant and tar character. Subtle and pretty. Full body, fine tannins and a balanced and fresh finish. Pretty wine. Hard not to drink now.

As is often the case with Phelan Segur, there is an excess of wood in this wine. Sometimes it works, as here, because the big, bold fruits are powerful enough to match the toastiness. That suggests a future as a ripe, black-fruited and structured wine with room for juicy acidity.

Offers a dark, dense feel, with layers of fig, blackberry, leather, chestnut, tobacco and loam all carrying through the broad, smoky finish. Features solid fruit, with an ample tug of earth. A solid effort for the vintage.