Beau-SEjour BEcot is a Premier Grand Cru ClassE B estate located to the west of Saint-Emilion, renowned for showcasing its exceptional terroir. Its limestone soils, similar to those found at Chateau Ausone, contribute to the quality of its wines. The estate has experienced a tumultuous history, having lost and later regained its Premier Grand Cru status. Today, it stands as one of the top Grand Cru ClassE properties, with only Chateau Pavie having a larger vineyard area in this part of Saint-Emilion.
Owned by the BEcot family since 1969, the estate was previously known as Chateau BeausEjour-Fagouet. The vineyards were originally part of a larger estate, which was divided in the 18th century. The BEcots also produce a highly sought-after garage wine, La Gomerie.
The 1986 vintage of Beau-SEjour BEcot is a prime example of the estate’s mastery in Bordeaux winemaking. In the glass, it shows a deep ruby hue, hinting at its complexity. Aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and cherry are complemented by notes of tobacco, cedar, and subtle earthiness. On the palate, the wine balances rich fruit flavours like plum, cassis, and black cherry, with secondary hints of dark chocolate and baking spices. The tannins are beautifully integrated, providing a smooth, velvety texture and a long, lingering finish.
This vintage highlights the aging potential of Bordeaux wines, having matured gracefully over the years. It’s a perfect representation of the estate’s dedication to crafting high-quality wines, making it a must-try for both seasoned wine lovers and newcomers alike.
Beau-SEjour BEcot’s vineyard spans 18.5 hectares, with 16.52 hectares planted primarily with Merlot (70%), along with Cabernet Franc (24%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (6%). The vines, averaging 40 years old, are planted on chalky soils rich in fossilized starfish. Harvesting is done by hand, and the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in 80-100% new barrels, followed by 16 to 18 months of aging in the cellar at a constant 16°C. The estate produces around 60,000 bottles annually.
With similar weather conditions to its famous 1982 predecessor, the 1986 vintage on the Right Bank produced concentrated wines which enjoyed excellent ageing potential, and this vintage of Chateau Beau-SEjour BEcot is testimony of that exceptional year.
