Deep ruby color; plum, red cherry, blackcurrant on the nose; plum, black cherry, redcurrant, baking spice, vanilla on the palate.
Dry, although the very ripe fruits mimic sweetness; delicious; medium body, easy-going tannins after nine years, balancing acidity. This is second label of Medoc’s northernmost classified growth by maker with roots back to the 12th century. This vintage has 53% cab, 38% merlot, 7% cab franc and 2% petit verdot—other vintages tilt toward merlot. Serious wine that also is very approachable introduction to the great wines of Bordeaux.
Historians date Calon’s origins to the Gallo-Roman era. The name comes from “calones”—small transport boats used in the Gironde estuary. While there is evidence of wine making in the 12th century, the estate rose in stature in the 18th century when owned by Nicolas-Alexandre the Marquis de Ségur, who also owned Latour, Lafite, and Mouton. The 136-acre vineyard is distinguished by being completely enclosed behind a stone wall.
The estate acquired rank of third classified growth in the famous 1855 classification. From 1894 to 2012 it was owned by the Gasqueton family. They were in charge when this wine was made. Today’s owners are the Suravenir company, a subsidiary of the banking group Crédit Mutuel Arkéa. The insurance company joined forces with the Videlot group to initiate an extensive program of renovation
Château Calon-Ségur Marquis de Calon Saint-Estèphe 2009 presents superb velvety richness, depth, with minerality generated by vines growing in gravel beds that are 16-feet deep. Elegance, depth, and length are the dominant characteristics. The wine keeps on deliciously performing in your mouth even after you fully swallow. Pair with black pepper steak, roast pork, filet mignon, beef brisket, pot roast, venison, roast potatoes, manchego, white cheddar, provolone cheese. $38-45
