Chateau Beau-Sejour-Becot, Saint-Emilion, 2020, 75cl

A terrific performance for an estate on a continuing upward trajectory, the 2020 Beau-Séjour Bécot unwinds in the glass with a deep bouquet of cherries and blackberries mingled with violets and spices. Medium to full-bodied, pure and layered, it's deep and concentrated, with a vibrant core of fruit, polished tannins and a long, sapid finish. The 2020 is a blend of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, some two-thirds of which was matured in new oak, with the balance in tanks, amphorae and foudres. - William Kelley, Wine Advocate

Fine and complex fragrance; black cherry and chalky limestone notes, alongside coconut, thyme, sage, Darjeeling tea, redcurrant, wild cherry, black pepper. Smooth in the mouth with very ripe fruit, the alcohol does not disturb the silky, juicy impression, well-integrated tannins, fine-nervy acidity; very graceful, ethereal.

The 2020 Beau-Séjour Bécot was picked 8 September until 30 September, but mostly between 8-12 September, around 70% of the production. It is one of the highest percentages of Merlot in recent years partly due to restructuring of the vineyard and also higher yields 47-48hl/ha) compared to the Cabernets. With no SO2 used during fermentation and matured in 55% new oak 20hl Stockinger and Taransaud foudres and regular barriques) it is tightly wound on the nose, so I afforded the sample an hour to really open. It offers predominantly red berry fruit, wild mint and traces of dried honey, more floral scents emerging, violet and iris flower blossoming with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, very well judged acidity, a very graceful and unpretentious Saint-Émilion, harmonious with a touch of white pepper enhancing the precise finish. This is a classically styled Beau-Séjour Bécot that conveys a brooding intensity, so I would give it several years in the cellar. Drink 2028 - 2048.