Calon-Segur 2011

A red with wonderful aromas of blackberries, spices and plums that follow through to a full body, with lovely integrated tannins and a polished, fine finish. Better in 2017.

A blend 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot and this includes the vin de presse. It has a refined bouquet of dark berries, wild hedgerow and a touch of rose petals, and seems lighter than the 2009 or 2010, although it displays fine delineation and sense of femininity. The palate is medium-bodied with a pleasing, rounded entry where the Merlot neatly fleshes out the Cabernet. It is not a complex Calon Segur, neither does it possess the spine-tingling backbone and tension of the 2010. But is has a satisfying purity and a lovely smooth, silky texture towards the finish and a minerally aftertaste that lingers longer than I expected. This may merit a higher score after bottling. Tasted April 2012.

Its bigger sister, the well-made 2011 Calon Segur boasts a dense ruby/purple color, sweet cassis and black cherry fruit intermixed with hints of earth, oak and spice, medium body, moderate tannin, a pure mouthfeel and a long finish. Give it 3-4 years of bottle age and enjoy it over the next 10-15 years.