(WE 92-94 points) The oak is currently quite forward and powerful in this young wine, which needs time for the fruit to come through. But the fruit is there, with black currant acidity and freshness showing in the background. Let the wine soften and don't drink before 2024.

Showing nicely, the 2017 Chateau Phelan Segur is a textbook Saint-Estephe that plays beautifully in the vintage. Classis Saint-Estephe earthy dark fruits, spice box, cedary herbs, and hints of chocolate all emerge from the glass, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a rounded, seamless texture, loads of sweet fruit, and a great finish. It's a beautiful effort that readers should snatch up. Drink bottles over the coming 15-20 years.

Focused, featuring a beam of black cherry and plum fruit, backed by well-embedded charcoal and iron notes. A light floral accent curls around the finish as the fruit and minerality meld together. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2031. — JM