Description
The 22-hectare vineyard of Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot has 17 hectares of vines with the goal of being 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc. There is also a minor amount of Cabernet Sauvignon in the vineyard as well which is going to be removed. On average the vines are close to 45 years of age. But they have old vines as well. In fact, some of their oldest Merlot vines date back almost 75 years. The Right Bank vineyard is planted to a vine density of 6,600 vines per hectare. Although new plantings are taking place at higher levels of density at 7,200 vines per hectare. Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot is located on the limestone plateau of Saint Emilion with a terroir of clay that has deep, limestone soils. Below the surface there is an endless array of limestone tunnels and quarries, that really explain what makes the wine of Beau-Sejour Becot so special. The vineyard increased in size in 2012. The increase in size was due to the inclusion of the vines previously used by their other Saint Emilion estate, La Gomerie. With the exception of that parcel, most of it is on top of the plateau.
Tasting Notes
My favorite Beau-Sejour-Becot to date, this sumptuous, dense blue/purple-hued 2009 reveals a blockbuster nose of blueberry pie, black fruits, licorice, forest floor, spring flowers and a hint of mocha. A blend of 70% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon made from tiny yields of 27 hectoliters per hectare, this big, inky, powerful, tannic wine is sensationally concentrated. With an unctuous texture, full-bodied power and tremendous levels of tannin (largely concealed behind a cascade of rich fruit), this is a fabulous effort from a beautifully situated St.-Emilion premier grand cru classe. It will need 5-8 years of cellaring, and should keep for three decades. [94+ Points, Robert M. Parker, Jr.– December 2011, robertparker.com]
