Beau-Séjour Bécot 1998

As most recent vintages have, the 1998 exhibits flamboyant, obvious new oak, but unlike other years, there is more concentration, power, and depth behind the vanilla toasty notes. Full-bodied, dense, and chewy, with copious peppery, herb-tinged, red currant, black currant, and blackberry fruit, this is a lush, generously-endowed offering with a lightly tannic finish. Anticipated maturity: now-2016. Last tasted, 3/02

The 1998 Beau-Séjour Bécot was picked between 29 September and 5 October. The colour is more youthful than either the 1995 or 1996 and the nose certainly more vibrant: cranberry and strawberry fruit, fine purity and well integrated oak. There is a sense of purpose about these aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, fine cohesion and plenty of melted red berry fruit laced with tobacco, allspice and white pepper. In the context of this vertical, I see this 1998 as a benchmark – not the greatest ever, but a sign of things to come. Tasted at the château.

Substantial, rich, warm nose. Sweet quite refined palate. Lots of stuffing and flattering yet with good structure. Not nearly at full potential though a very confident mouthful of ripe fruit. Slightly tart.

The 1998 exhibits flamboyant, obvious new oak, but unlike other years, there is more concentration, power, and depth behind the vanillin/pain grille notes. Full-bodied, dense, and chewy, with copious peppery, herb-tinged, red currant, black currant, and blackberry fruit, this is a lush, generously-endowed offering with a lightly tannic finish. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2016.