Calon-Segur 2008

Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. This is a great Calon Segur from the late Mme Gasqueton, surpassing my appraisal in October 2010. The nose is delectable: very lifted perfume, well defined with crisp black fruit, cassis, tobacco and a touch of gravel. Very Saint Estephe. The palate is medium-bodied with an almost understated, very elegant entry that builds nicely towards a very well defined, classy finish. There is very high quality fruit and winemaking in evidence. Tasted January 2012.

A solid red, with plum, spices and cedar character on the nose and palate. Coffee too. Full and dense, with a long finish. Solid red here. Superb for the appellation. Best after 2013.

A blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot, this is an outstanding wine made in a classic style. The tannins are high, but the wine possesses abundant notes of cedar, licorice, underbrush, black currants and cherries. Medium-bodied and dense, but structured and backward (as are most vintages of Calon-Segur), give it 7-8 years of cellaring and drink it over the next 20-25.