1995 Calon-Segur
By Chateau Calon-Segur
1995 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur, St-Estephe, Bordeaux
The quintessentially aristocratic 1995 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur offers an illustrious reflection of a truly exceptional vintage in St-Estephe. The year was marked by a late-ripening season, a factor that imbued the harvest with a resolute structure and remarkable ageing potential. My own experiences charting the library of vintages within this esteemed region have impressed upon me the distinctiveness that 1995 brought to the cellar.
Mature Elegance Defined
The 1995 vintage stands as a testament to the adept viticulture and precise vinification that are hallmarks of Chateau Calon-Segur. With its richly woven tapestry of ripe blackcurrant and hints of tobacco and earthy undertones, this wine portrays an elegance that has reached full maturity, speaking directly to the discerning wine investor seeking wines of gravity and distinction.
Terroir-driven Complexity
An estate that can boast of a terroir as noble as that of Chateau Calon-Segur's, takes full advantage in years like 1995. With Cabernet Sauvignon leading the composition complemented by Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the wine demonstrates the balance achieved through careful marrying of varietals—each contributing to the layered complexity that characterises this particular offering.
The profound nature of the 1995 Calon-Segur is further highlighted by its beguiling bouquet, where tertiary aromas fold into nuances of truffle and leather—a hallmark indicative of sophisticated maturation. In the glass, impeccable structure and velvety tannins make it a formidable counterpart to steak au poivre or aged cheeses—a versatile contender in any connoisseur's repertoire.
Understanding how sesquicentennial soils and a classic maritime climate conspire to produce such exquisite Bordeaux editions remains at the heart of fine wine investment. The 1995 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur resonates with this history—making it a compelling addition for those invested not only in wine but in the landmark year that enhances its heritage.
A Vintage for the Erudite Investor
In conclusion, the virtues of 1995 Calon-Segur from Chateau Calon-Segur are unmistakable—a blend of precision winemaking and climatic serendipity. For investors, this wine represents an opportunity to acquire a standout Bordeaux that captures both the soul of St-Estephe's terroir and the exceptional nature of a vintage worthy of reverence.
Market price (USD)
$1,770.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
96.67
Scores and tasting notes
This has a very backward nose with an almost animal-like intensity. The Cabernet Sauvignon is dominant with cedar, smoke and sous-bois characteristics coming through. Superb definition with a little more 'attack' than the 1996 (which is not dissimilar in style.) The palate is extremely backward, almost chunky and tannic, much more primal than the '96 with blackberry, briary, bilberry complemented by hawthorn and leather. Very well balanced towards the charming finish which is developing an enthralling sense of harmony and effortless. A wine that put Mdm. Gasqueton on the map and still with so much to give in future years. Drink 2015-2040. Tasted November 2008.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2009
Tasted from an ex-château bottle at BI Wine & Spirits Calon-Segur dinner in London. The 1995 Calon-Segur was the vintage that raised the profile of this estate and heralded the start of the late Mme Gasqueton's era. At 20 years of age, it shows no signs of reaching the end of its plateau. Far from it. It has an endearing bouquet that still seems youthful: brambly red fruit, asphalt and a light marine influence. Allowing the wine to open, there is a subtle winegum scent. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, impressive depth and backbone, the second half having mellowed in recent years, rendering this approachable; hints of secondary truffle and smoke notes emerging with aeration. It has been several years since I last tasted this wine, but it is one that seems to become more and more impressive with age. Robert Parker rightly lauded this Calon-Ségur at the time of release. Twenty years on, it is fulfilling all its promise. Tasted March 2015.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016
As I have said many times since I first tasted this wine, the 1995 Calon-Segur is one of the great sleepers of the vintage (I bought the wine as a future for a mere $250 a case). The wine has closed down completely since bottling, but it is a sensational effort that may ultimately merit an even higher score. The wine is opaque purple-colored. With coaxing, the tight aromatics reveal some weedy cassis intertwined with truffles, chocolate, and beef blood-like aromas. On the palate, there is an element of sur-maturite (1995 was an extremely late harvest at Calon-Segur), fabulous density and purity, and a boatload of tannin. This deep, broodingly backward, classic Bordeaux will require a decade of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2035. Proprietor Madame Gasqueton (one of The Wine Advocate's heroines of 1997) has produced two unqualified back to back successes. Kudos to Calon-Segur, as both the 1995 and 1996 wines have a strong buy recommendation from me, but only for readers who have the patience to wait them out.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #115