Introduction:
The 2015 Frank Phélan Saint-Estèphe is the second wine of Château Phélan Ségur, offering a classic Left Bank Bordeaux experience in a more approachable, earlier-drinking style. From the excellent 2015 vintage, this wine balances ripe fruit, structured tannins, and savory Médoc character, making it both food-friendly and representative of Saint-Estèphe’s gravelly power and restraint.

Terrior:
Sourced from vineyards in Saint-Estèphe, the vines are planted on deep gravel and clay-limestone soils near the Gironde estuary. These soils favor Cabernet Sauvignon structure while clay retains moisture, contributing to depth and firmness. The maritime influence of the Gironde moderates temperatures, preserving acidity and freshness. The warm, balanced 2015 vintage delivered ripe tannins and generous fruit without sacrificing classic Bordeaux structure.

Appearance:
Deep ruby with garnet reflections at the rim. Clear and youthful in appearance, showing medium-plus density and classic Médoc coloration.

Nose:
Expressive and layered, with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry. Secondary notes of cedar, graphite, tobacco leaf, and subtle earth emerge, along with hints of dried herbs and gentle oak spice.

Palate:
Medium- to full-bodied with firm but polished tannins. Flavors of cassis, black plum, and red currant are supported by savory notes of pencil shavings, forest floor, and spice. Acidity remains fresh, giving lift and balance to the wine’s structure.

Finish:
Dry, savory, and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, cedar, and mineral tones. The finish tightens slightly, reflecting Saint-Estèphe’s hallmark grip and age-worthy profile.

Food Pairings:

• Meat: Grilled ribeye; roast lamb with rosemary; beef bourguignon

• Vegetarian: Mushroom and lentil stew; roasted root vegetables; truffle polenta

• Charcuterie Board: Aged cheddar; Comté; pâté; cornichons

Overall Impression:
Bringing together Saint-Estèphe’s gravel-and-clay terroir, deep ruby appearance, classic cassis-and-cedar aromatics, structured yet accessible palate, and a dry, savory finish, the 2015 Frank Phélan is a textbook Left Bank Bordeaux. It offers excellent value and authenticity, pairing best with hearty, protein-driven dishes and delivering immediate pleasure with the capacity for further short-term aging.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.0%
Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture
Producer Name: Château Phélan Ségur
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Saint-Estèphe AOC, Bordeaux
Grape Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Vintage: 2015
Wine Style: Still red; medium- to full-bodied; structured; classic Bordeaux
Winemaking Techniques: Traditional fermentation; blending of estate parcels; aging in French oak barrels
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Bordeaux bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork

Sources:

• Château Phélan Ségur producer and technical notes
• Saint-Estèphe AOC and Bordeaux viticultural references