A masculine, slightly rustic style of St.-Emilion, this dense ruby/purple-hued, medium-bodied 2011 exhibits notes of mulberries, black cherries, earth, graphite and a touch of background oak. It possesses elevated tannins, but a good attack and impressive purity as well as depth. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and drink it over the next 15+ years. RP
Tasted blind as a vintage comparison at the Valandraud vertical, the 1995 Beau-Sejour Becot was an unexpected showstopper. It has a very succinct bouquet, a little backward at first but after a few swirls, it unfolds with precise aromas of redcurrant, cranberry leaf, humidor and dried rose petals all with impressive vigor. The palate is well balanced, classic in style with crisp acidity and wonderful focus. There remains plenty of energy here and it comes armed with gorgeous notes of allspice, clove and sage infusing the red and black fruit on the persistent finish. This is an outstanding Saint Emilion from Beausejour-Becot. RP