Chateau Beausejour Becot 2007

Winery Background & History

Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, located on the prestigious limestone plateau of Saint-Émilion in Bordeaux, France, boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The estate was named “Beau-Séjour” in 1787 by General Jacques de Carles, captivated by its picturesque setting. In 1969, Michel Bécot acquired the property, adding his name to the château and expanding its vineyards by incorporating neighboring parcels, including the former Château La Carte. This expansion enhanced the estate’s reputation, leading to its classification as Premier Grand Cru Classé in 1996.

Producer & Winemaker

The Bécot family remains at the helm of the estate, with Gérard Bécot and his children, Juliette and Pierre, actively involved in its management. The winemaking team benefits from the expertise of consultant oenologist Thomas Duclos, who succeeded Michel Rolland in 2018, bringing a modern approach to the estate’s traditional practices.

Vineyard

The estate encompasses 22 hectares, with 17 hectares dedicated to vineyards planted on the limestone-rich soils of Saint-Émilion’s plateau. The vines have an average age of 45 years, with some Merlot vines nearing 75 years. The vineyard composition is approximately 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc, with a minor presence of Cabernet Sauvignon. Recent plantings have increased vine density to 7,200 vines per hectare, promoting competition and enhancing fruit quality.

The Wine

Château Beau-Séjour Bécot produces a Premier Grand Cru Classé wine that exemplifies the elegance and complexity of Saint-Émilion. The 2007 vintage reflects the estate’s commitment to quality, offering a harmonious blend of fruit, minerality, and refined tannins.

Vintage

The 2007 growing season presented challenges, including a cool and wet summer, leading to uneven ripening. However, favorable conditions in September allowed for a late harvest, resulting in wines with freshness and moderate alcohol levels. The 2007 vintage is characterized by its approachability and finesse, suitable for earlier consumption.

ABV%

The 2007 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot has an alcohol content of approximately 13%.

Vinification and Aging Method

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo whole berry fermentation in stainless steel tanks of 80 to 100 hectoliters, following a four-day cold maceration. Malolactic fermentation occurs in tanks, with the first four months spent on post-malolactic lees to enhance texture. The wine is aged for 16 months, with 55% in new French oak barrels, 20% in one-wine barrels, and 25% in amphoras and 20-hectoliter oak casks, integrating oak nuances while preserving fruit purity.

Grape Varietals

The 2007 blend comprises approximately 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, reflecting the estate’s focus on these varietals to express the terroir’s character.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby with garnet hues.

• Nose: Aromas of dark cherries, plums, and blackberries, interwoven with notes of tobacco, earth, and subtle floral undertones.

• Palate: Medium-bodied with a fresh acidity, offering flavors of dark fruits complemented by hints of tobacco and earth. The tannins are soft and elegant, leading to a harmonious and lingering finish.

Food and Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with roasted meats, such as lamb or beef, game dishes, and hearty stews. It also complements aged cheeses and mushroom-based dishes, enhancing the wine’s earthy nuances.

Service Methods

• Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight its aromatic profile and structure.

• Decanting: Decanting for 1–2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its complexity.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2007 vintage is suitable for consumption upon release but can develop additional complexity with short-term cellaring. Optimal drinking is within 10–15 years from the vintage date. Store in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity to preserve its quality.

Scores

• Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider: 90 points – “Ready to drink, the wine is medium-bodied, leaning to the brighter red fruit range, with dark cherry and plummy fruits. Soft, elegant, and fresh, with tobacco, earth, and floral nuances, this is drinking at close to peak today.”

• CellarTracker Community Average: 88.8 points – Reflecting consistent appreciation from wine enthusiasts.