1986 Calon-Segur
By Chateau Calon-Segur
1986 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
In the firmament of Bordeaux’s storied terroirs, the 1986 vintage of Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur shines with particular brilliance. Esteemed by connoisseurs and collectors alike, this exceptional vintage embodies the character of St-Estephe with an added level of grace afforded by an extraordinary growing season.
A Testament to Terroir and Time
Within the mosaics of Bordeaux's vintages, the 1986 stands as a testament to the virtues of patience. For investors and enthusiasts who cellar their treasures, Calon-Segur has rewarded their foresight with a bouquet that marvellously unfolds layers of dark fruit tones structured around a core of mature tannic intricacy. In its current evolution, this wine demonstrates an impressive balance and harmony that only time can orchestrate.
Climatic Precision Crafting Classic Character
The combination of an early bud break followed by a temperate summer in 1986 set the stage for a landmark harvest. The St-Estephe region benefited from optimal climatic conditions leading up to harvest, creating a setting where Cabernet Sauvignon could manifest its full potential. The resulting 1986 Calon-Segur is richly aromatic; cassis laden and woven with complex hints of cigar box, truffle and graphite—a symphony of olfactory delight enticing even the most discerning palates.
Lauded for its remarkable longevity and sustained development, this vintage continues to encapsulate the essence of St-Estephe’s capacity for producing wines with powerful structure and depth while maintaining a harmonious poise.
An Ode to Enduring Elegance
In summary, the 1986 Calon-Segur is not merely a gem tucked away in the annals of wine history but remains an actively pursued asset for fine wine investment portfolios. It represents the embodiment of St-Estephe's resilience through decades, offering a true sensory journey that bridges vintner craftsmanship and nature's serendipity. As it glides effortlessly across the palate—its refined tannins and vibrant acidity merging—it cements its position as one of the most laudable expressions from Chateau Calon-Segur.
Market price (GBP)
£1,380.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
106.15
Scores and tasting notes
The great Madame Denise Gasqueton, a Bordeaux icon whom I always visited early in the morning (8:15 a.m. for nearly 20 consecutive years), passed away on the first day of the 2011 harvest. The 2011 Calon-Segur is a fitting tribute to her extraordinary passion and love for this fabulous estate in the northern sector of St.-Estephe. A very strong effort (this property was untouched by the hail storm that swept through the area on September 1), it boasts an opaque purple color as well as surprisingly sweet tannin and abundant quantities of black cherry, black currant and dusty, loamy scents. Medium to full-bodied with beautifully integrated tannins and sensational purity and length, this super effort is a wonderful homage to the memory of Madame Gasqueton. Moreover, it is potentially one of the longest-lived wines of the vintage and should drink well for 25 or more years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #200
Tasted at the château, the 1986 Calon Segur has a thin tawny rim that gives away its 30 years of age. It is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. The bouquet is fully mature, not complex but perfumed with wilted violets infusing the candied red fruit, clove and dried orange peel aromas. It probably is a little static and rustic compared to more recent vintages, probably typical of this era for the estate. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy tannin. Like the 1986 Phelan-Segur, this is a "gutsy" Saint Estèphe, rough around the edges, a bit square-jawed and uncouth. Yet there is plenty of density and satisfying freshness, with a tang of spice on the cedar-tinged finish. Well-kept bottles will continue to give pleasure. You will enjoy this if you expectations are not sky high. Tasted July 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 30 December 2016
Dark garnet. A soft nose of forest floor, cedar and minerals. The palate has supple, quite light tannins considering this is a 1986. Perhaps lacking depth but generous and open-knit on the cedary mid-palate. Cigar box and pencil lead on the finish. Drinking now. Fine - but don't leave too long. Tasted April 2001.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal