2005 Ch. Calon Ségur, St. Estèphe

"Opulent, well-knit with fine fruit and spice. Luscious, ripe fruit, silky tannins"
(Wines of the Year - Decanter Award 5/5 Stars- Decanter Nov 08)

This is a wonderfully constructed wine, with very fine, silky tannins and an intense core of classic brambly St Estèphe fruit with a whiff of mulberries. It is pure and fresh with the 60% Cabernet Sauvignon - brooding, as if waiting to leap out - very much to the fore. This is completely different to their famous 2003, and although Madame will not be drawn on the matter, we certainly think it is considerably superior.

A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, the totally closed 2005 Calon Segur is one of those traditionally made, backstrapping, uncompromising Bordeaux that will last 30-40 or more years. Its dense ruby color with purple nuances is followed by a nose that reluctantly offers up scents of damp earth, wood smoke, black cherries, cassis, and an exotic Asian spice character. The wine is formidably endowed and broodingly tannic, with noticeable acidity and a structured, nearly impenetrable mouthfeel. Nevertheless, it is easy to sense the weight, extract, and richness in this pure, deep wine. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050.
(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Apr-2008)

Opulent, well knit with fine fruit and spice notes. Luscious entry, ripe fruit notes, yet on a tight rein. Potent yet restrained, with silky tannins.
(5/5 Stars - Medoc 2005 - Decanter Award Winners - July 08)