Beau-Séjour Bécot 2019

The 2019 Beau-Séjour Bécot has turned out nicely, wafting from the glass with aromas of cassis, wild berries, raw cocoa, spices and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy, it's deep and layered, with a rich mid-palate that's underpinned by succulent acids and powdery tannins. Located opposite Château Canon on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau, there's some significant restructuring going on in the vineyards here, and in the cellar, foudres, amphorae and once-used barrels complement new oak: the result is the best wines this estate has produced in the modern era. 2025 - 2050

The 2019 Beau-Séjour-Bécot just lacks a bit of energy on the nose, dusky black fruit, sous-bois and dry tobacco. Old school. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-hewn tannins, very well balanced, lovely purity with a caressing and persistent finish. Classy winemaking. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. Drink 2025-2050

Plums, currants, pine cones, mushrooms and bark on the nose. Some licorice, too. It’s medium-bodied with tightly knit tannins. Tight and fresh with fantastic tension and drive. Refined and focused. Spicy and lightly salty at the end. Try in 2026.

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Beau-Sejour Becot saunters out with easy-going scents of juicy blackberries and plum preserves, followed by hints of cedar, potpourri, and fallen leaves. The medium to full-bodied palate is elegantly styled and refreshing, with very fine-grained tannins and a mineral lift on the finish.