1989 Calon-Segur
By Chateau Calon-Segur
1989 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
The 1989 vintage of Bordeaux remains spoken of in hushed and reverent tones, and among its illustrious offerings stands the arresting 1989 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur. Gloriously maturing, this wine encapsulates the epitome of St-Estephe's robust charm and delightful nuance.
Chronicle of a Vintage: A Hallmark Year
The 1989 vintage in Bordeaux was marked by a warm, dry summer that ushered in an early harvest, providing impeccable balance and a felicitous ripeness rarely paralleled. The wines from this vaunted year are renowned for their longevity and substantial structure, and the 1989 Calon-Segur is no exception.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Sensory Indulgence
With an opulent bouquet swirling with the scent of blackcurrant compote, truffles, and a whisper of cigar box, the 1989 Calon-Segur tantalises even before a taste has passed one’s lips. On the palate, it reveals itself with great dignity—layer upon layer of ripe blackberries, plums, and a desirable hint of earthy spice. Fine-grained tannins are now softened by time, smoothing the way to a finish that is both prolonged and exquisitely harmonised.
Savouring this wine now would be an encounter with a seasoned traveller at peak maturity; yet it possesses an undercurrent of vitality that suggests longevity still lies ahead—a narrative spanning decades yet incomplete. Thus, it represents not just a pinnacle sipping experience but a tangible asset nestled within an investor's portfolio.
Investment Lens: Economy and Elegance
Aimed toward those with an appreciation for vintages that combine historical significance with unparalleled drinking pleasure, the 1989 Calon-Segur provides both. The stature and finesse present in this bottle enable it to crown any esteemed collector’s cache while awaiting potential value appreciation amidst Bordeaux's revered lineage. Investors take note—as one luxuriates in the depth and poise characteristic of a paramount St-Estephe vintage, so too can there be contentment in knowing that the investment holds weight beyond mere gustatory delight.
In conclusion, this extraordinary concoction from Chateau Calon-Segur captures not only the excellence of the 1989 season but also embodies all that makes Bordeaux a hallowed ground for oenologists and collectors alike. The vintage narrates a tale of climatic serendipity wrought into vinedom's alchemy, culminating in this storied bottle worthy of profound regard—and whatever patience one might still possess.
Market price (HKD)
HK$12,520.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
93.57
Scores and tasting notes
This is just a shade deeper in colour than the 1990 Calon-Segur. The nose has a little more freshness than the 1990 but is half the fun. A little pointed, earthy and minerally, sous-bois, tree bark
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2009
Tasted from an ex-château bottle at BI Wine & Spirits Calon-Segur dinner in London. Just over a decade ago when I last tasted the 1989 Calon Segur, I was enraptured by this wine. However, over subsequent years time has caught up with it and it is now beginning to show signs of wear and tear. It is what you might call "old school": sandalwood, warm bricks and bay leaf scents with just a touch of star anise. It feels just a little fatigued. The palate is medium-bodied, rustic and broad-shouldered, but with a sweet core of degraded fruit, vestiges from that hot summer. The finish foursquare and a little austere, suggesting that it might dry out within 5-8 years. There is still some pleasure to be gained from this Saint Estèphe, but I would drink it sooner rather than later. Tasted March 2015.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016
This property has turned in a very good effort in 1989. It possesses a deep ruby/garnet color, a sweet, chewy, dense texture, full body, plenty of alcohol, and moderately high tannin. Quite precocious, it will have a life span of at least 15 years. It reminded me of a downsized version of the 1982, but slightly more rustic. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted, 8/97.
Robert Parker Jr - Bordeaux Book, 3rd Edition