SF | Imperious in its inscrutable robe of fluorescence! A classic Phelan nose of smoke, fig, cassis and cedar; seductive to those who favour the less obvious mechanic of seduction. The palate maintains the juxtaposition between the fruit and the spice; Cayenne pepper, ripe sloes, bilberry and a dash of clove. Very attractive, very pure and very focused; a more than satisfactory swan song from the ancien regime at this sometimes underrated property . One must remember how close the vines are located to Chateau Lafite! 94
AJ | Dark, dense black-red. Very refined fruits here, elegant and engaging. Others are wealthier and broader aromatically but this is hard to beat for purity and finesse: tapered, sculpted blackcurrant fruits. Not quite as much aromatic freshness as Tronquoy alongside it, however. The aromatic profile is exactly what you get on the palate: unswerving, pure and long, with vivacious fruits glowing and singing through the palate from start to finish. Very St Estephe; very 2020; lovely work. Super length, too; in a way, a reference wine for the vintage from this fine chateau.Drink Dates: 2027 - 2038.