A powerful and opulent Right Bank classic, the 2009 from Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is widely regarded as one of the estate’s finest vintages. Deep blue-purple in colour, it bursts with aromas of blueberry pie, blackberries and licorice layered with mocha, forest floor and spring flowers. Full-bodied and richly textured, the palate is dense and concentrated, with chewy yet well-concealed tannins wrapped in generous dark fruit. Graphite, spice and subtle toasted notes add complexity to the long, structured finish.

Wine Enthusiast | WE 96
Published: Jan 2, 2012

Minty new wood aromas on a wine that shows both great tannins and sweet wood. The fruit is still to show, but promises fresh plum flavors that will be delicious and juicy. This is a ripe, concentrated wine. — Roger Voss

The Wine Advocate | RP 94+
Published: Dec 23, 2011
Drink: 2017-2047

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.

James Suckling | JS 94
Published: Apr 28, 2012

Aromas of blueberries and minerals with hints of dried flowers. Full body, with chewy tannins and a bright finish. Structured on the finish and should open up nicely with age. Fresh. Better after 2017.

Wine Spectator | WS 92
Published: Mar 31, 2012
Drink: 2014-2024

Dark but racy, with chocolate-covered raspberry and blackberry fruit carried by graphite and toasty cinnamon, black tea and anise flavors. Firms up on the finish, with a lovely note of singed apple wood that should meld nicely after cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2024. 4,600 cases made.

Technical Specs

Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Natural Cork
Harvest: 2009
Oak: French oak
Varietals: 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vineyard: Saint-Martin de Mazerat plateau
Soil: Clay-limestone
Vinification: Hand-harvested, with very low yields of around 27 hl/ha; traditional fermentation and extended maceration followed by oak maturation
Region: Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
Classification: Premier Grand Cru Classé B

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Decanting: 1 hour
Food Pairing: Roast lamb, beef, duck, venison, pigeon, truffle dishes, mushrooms and mature hard cheeses.