Chateau Beau Sejour Becot Saint Emilion Grand Cru (Premier Grand Cru Classe) 2004

Château Beau-Séjour Bécot a prestigious Saint-Émilion estate which boasts a rich history is located just to the west of the medieval town of Saint-Emilion in the very heart of this prestigious appellation.

Classified a Premier Grand Cru Classé until 1986, the chateau lost its rank as a "Premier", but regained it in 1996 thanks to a ruling by the INAO (Institut National des Appellations d'Origine).

Originally named Beau-Séjour in 1787 by then-owner General Jacques de Carle, the estate was purchased by Michel Bécot in 1969 from Doctor Jean Fagouet. Bécot expanded the vineyard in 1979, increasing its size from 10.5 to 15 hectares by acquiring land on the Trois Moulins plateau, at which point the château adopted its current name.

The vines benefit from homogenous, high-quality soil. Since Michel Bécot's retirement in 1985, his sons, Gérard and Dominique, have managed the property.

"The Beausejour Becot 2004 is a little more opulent on the nose compared to its peers, erring towards red berry fruit embroidered with a mixture of candied orange peel, raspberry coulis, sandalwood and mulberry.

There is a satisfying "melted" feel to the aromatics.

The palate is medium-bodied with a furry texture.

There is plenty of succulent red fruit moving firmly into their secondary phase with tobacco, truffle and white pepper on the almost Rhone-like finish.

This is very attractive and should drink well over the next decade."

90 / 100 Wine Advocate Neal Martin

"Very grapey and fresh on the nose, with hints of flowers.

Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and a complex, subtle aftertaste of vanilla, blueberry and cream.

Long and refined. Best after 2012. 5,416 cases made."

92 / 100 Wine Spectator