Château Phélan Ségur, St-Estèphe, Bordeaux, France, 2012

Dense black-red, fine meaty, slightly gamey nose, spice continues on the palate, smooth and deep, good future.

Unusually in terms of my recent experience, this is tasting far more plump and inviting than the 2011 right now - with well defined and purely-delivered cassis and bilberry flavours, some creamy texture and enjoyably confident tannins. It has a bright, fresh finish with crushed mint notes and plenty of St Estèphe power. 3.72pH. Harvest from October 8 to 19.