1999 Calon-Segur
By Chateau Calon-Segur
1999 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
In the pantheon of St-Estephe vintages, the 1999 Calon-Segur stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Bordeaux winemaking. There’s no question this year did not have the climatic benevolence of its predecessor; yet what it lacked in meteorological grace, it compensated for with a display of remarkable vineyard management and adept winemaking from Chateau Calon-Segur.
The Hallmarks of '99: A Wine of Resilience and Charm
Crafting elegant wines in less than ideal years is a hallmark of Chateau Calon-Segur, whose emblem of a heart speaks to their dedication to capturing the essence of their terroir. The cooler, damper conditions of 1999 shaped an underrated Yet, upon closer inspection, discerning investors will find a treasure trove of quality.
The 1999 Calon-Segur reveals this talent for finesse, even in a challenging milieu. With an alluring bouquet marrying dark berried fruit with hints of leather and earthy undertones, one is reminded that Bordeaux’s magic lies not merely in its sun-soaked vintages but also in those that test the mettle of its vines.
The palate confirms this narrative; the wine presents an assemblage balancing robust tannins with merlot’s plush character. It’s medium-bodied with graceful ageing potential. The composition of Cabernet Sauvignon commands respect and forecasts further development for those with the foresight to cellar this underestimated vintage.
The Investment Perspective: Rare Quality in Quiet Vintages
For fine wine investors seeking value beyond the clamour for celebrated years, the 1999 Calon-Segur is a shrewd addition to one’s portfolio. Its stature has grown quietly, mirroring the steady ascent of a sleeper hit that charms with subtlety over ostentation.
In summary, the poise and elegance inherent in the 1999 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur, against all climatic odds, showcases not just a survivor of adversity but a wine that transcends expectation. Sublimely constructed, evolving steadily on its journey through time – it epitomises the tenacity and depth for which St-Estephe is renowned.
Market price (GBP)
£1,250.00
12x75cl
Highest score
87
POP score
178.57
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at the 1999 horizontal at Bordeaux Index. A relatively simple, tertiary bouquet, a touch of liquorices, cedar, sous-bois and a hint of thyme. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and very good purity. Less tertiary than the nose, still a little broody at the moment but with impressive elegance and finesse. Hints of dried blood, a touch of sour cherry. Very foursquare on the finish. Fine. Drink now-2020. Tasted June 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2009
This supple 1999 is an elegant, lighter-styled Calon-Segur, particularly when compared to the 2000. It exhibits an evolved color, sweet cherry and dusty berry fruit, and hints of dried herbs. It is a spicy, cherry-flavored effort with a style reminiscent of a Beaune premier cru. The blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc has resulted in a wine of elegance and finesse rather than one with a lot of stuffing and power. Drink it during its first 7-10 years of life.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2002