Beau-Séjour Bécot 2009

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.

The Beausejour Becot 2009 is ripe and very poised on the nose with redcurrant, truffle, crushed stone and a touch of cassis - developing gorgeous floral notes with time. The palate is medium-bodied with a rounded entry. It has a fine saline entry, touch of brine, primal and powerful towards the white pepper-tinged finish. There is some fine Cabernet Franc in here - a great little Saint Emilion that punches above its weight. Tasted December 2012.

Blueberry, licorice and floral aromas follow through to a full body, with a beautiful core of fruit and a long, fine finish. Layered and gorgeous.

Rich, dark fruits on the nose, with a hint of smoked meat. Very thick and sweet and Napa Valley-like. Super-sweet. Perhaps difficult to match with food but it has been well made. Thick and drying and hard work. Very drying finish. Tarry. Date tasted 30th March 2010. Drink 2015-2027.