Tasted single blind at Southwold. Well-well-well. This Phelan-Segur trounced all opposition from nearly every participant. I said that it might ameliorate after barrel ageing but this? It has a very expressive nose with black fruits, cooked meat, scorched earth and a slight garrigues scent coming through. Complex and engaging. A medium-bodied palate, quite grainy, nicely balanced, very clean fruit and very cohesive. Touches of game towards the finish. Great persistency. Good breeding and structure with a slightly austere finish. Vin de garde. The question mark is there because I want to reconfirm this eulogy. Tasted January 2009.

I had hoped this offering would turn out even better, but it is still a tasty, well-made Bordeaux that represents reasonably good value in this super-expensive vintage. Deep ruby to the rim, it offers up scents of damp earth, black currants, cherries, licorice, and herbs, medium body, moderate tannin, and 10-15 years of longevity.

(a 50/50 blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot) Bright, full ruby. Violet, blackberry and licorice on the nose. Bright, juicy and focused, with very good density and purity of black fruit flavors. Finishes with fairly full, slightly drying tannins but has the strength of material to support its solid structure. Should develop slowly. A good showing today.

One of the stronger efforts in St.-Estèphe in 2005, this Phélan-Sègur exhibits good depth of fruit, including mulberry, black and red currants, earth and spice. It is medium-bodied, with sweet tannin and excellent concentration. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.