2003 Calon-Segur
By Chateau Calon-Segur
2003 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
A truly unique year, the 2003 vintage at Chateau Calon-Segur stands apart as a testament to the resilient nature of well-versed winemaking amidst the most challenging of climatic conditions. The European heatwave of that year is etched in viticultural lore, setting the stage for one of the rarest expressions of St-Estephe terroir.
An Emblem of Endurance and Elegance
Questions lingered over Bordeaux's capacity to maintain its storied precision in the face of sweltering adversity. Yet, the 2003 Calon-Segur rose admirably to the challenge, emerging not only unscathed but triumphant from a summer that risked all. It presents an investable profile, balancing immediate pleasure with assured longevity—attributes keenly sought after by fine wine connoisseurs and investors alike.
Atypical Vintage, Attributable Character
The 2003 vintage brought forth a darker, more sumptuous fruit profile than usually found in Chateau Calon-Segur's typically firm structure. The oppressive heat engendered an early onset of ripeness, resulting in a wine festooned with rich blackberry and cassis aromas that leap from the glass. Undertones of smoked earth and menthol aptly reflect the fiery vintage, while supple tannins showcase a masterful tempering of nature's fervent hand.
This year's offering holds a significant stature in Calon-Segur's pantheon; crafting such a uniquely robust yet refined wine underscores an exceptional expertise. While respecting the chateau’s known balance and freshness, the 2003 Calon-Segur harmoniously integrates the inherent muscularity imparted by the dramatic season.
An invaluable addition to any sophisticated portfolio, the 2003 Calon-Segur encapsulates St-Estephe's resilience and elegance under pressure. It serves as a collector's touchstone for both Bordeaux aficionados and those astute investors looking for a nuanced narrative within their assemblage. Inside each bottle lies a paragon of adaptation—a Bordeaux expression wrought from a vintage like no other.
Market price (CAD)
$2,396.59
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
102.86
Scores and tasting notes
This shows so wonderfully now with a dense palate yet a delicate chocolate, mineral and walnut skin. Full and velvety. Wonderful with juicy length and a long finish. Almost Burgundian in texture.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, July 1st 2013
Bottled in July, 2005, the saturated ruby/purple-colored 2003 exhibits a tightly-knit, but promising nose of mulberries, blackberries, cherries, and hints of new oak and truffles. This 60% Cabernet Sauvignon / 40% Merlot blend possesses a gorgeous texture as well as an expansive, exotic softness, and 13% alcohol (according to the proprietor, Madame Denise Gasqueton). Generous and rich, this high class, full-bodied wine will undoubtedly be more approachable than its closest spiritual sibling, the 1982. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2030.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #164
This beautiful 2003 exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, a vigorous youthfulness, and plenty of mulberry, black currant and cherry fruit intermixed with notions of cedarwood, baking spices and roasted herbs. Ripe, medium to full-bodied, fresh and precise, this wine is just hitting full maturity where it should remain for another 10-15 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 August 2014
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. I have never warmed to the late Mdm. Gasqueton's '03. To be honest, I find too much brettanomyces on the Calon Segur - horsey aromas, as if you were cleaning out the stables! The palate is soft and plush on the entry but unusually for Calon Segur that is little backbone or structure and the finish is very predictable and fades without saying much. Tasted March 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013