Phélan Ségur 2005

Robert Parker scored this wine but space limitations did not allow him to publish tasting notes. He did, however, write about this wine and all the other cru bourgeois that he scored that: "2005 is the finest vintage for these wines since 1982. The range of scores for these wines should give readers an idea of just how consistent this vintage is at this level. Given the style of the vintage, most of these wines should be accessible young yet evolve for a decade or more because of their concentration and tannic structure."

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.

Velvety-textured red with berry, currant and light spice. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long finish. Builds on the palate. Not sure it's on the same level as 2003 though.

Very dark with some evolution. Quite a developed nose and lots of richness. This could be Lafon-Rochet - flattering but not the densest. Good balance.

Mid crimson. Vigorous nose. Very solid and quite inky. Smooth, well made. A solid block just like Cos. Should not dissapoint- eventually. Pretty austere. Quite deep crimson. Frank, direct, nose, very solid. Lovely opulence on the front palate. Satin texture and good right tannins, just lacks a little attack on the back of the palate but very worthy. Solid and should age well but may never escape on to a higher plane of pleasure. Drink 2016-26