Calon Segur 2016 (750ML)

96 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2016 Calon Ségur was matured entirely in new oak for 20 months and bottled at the end of July 2018. This was one of the most impressive wines from the estate when I tasted it from barrel. Now in bottle, it has a gorgeous bouquet of beautifully defined blackberry, bilberry, dark chocolate and graphite aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, perhaps suppler than Cos d'Estournel and more velvety in terms of texture. A dash of cracked black pepper and allspice appears toward the finish, which fans out gloriously. A brilliant wine from François Millet and his team." 1/19

97 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2016 Calon Ségur is dense and radiant on the palate, just as it was from barrel. Even with all of its intensity, the 2016 is distinguished by its sense of freshness, lift and nuance, much of which comes from the 18% Cabernet Franc in the blend. Sweet floral, spice and minty notes add aromatic intensity to a core of sweet red cherry and plum fruit. There is plenty of underlying structure, but the tannins are sweet, silky and perfectly ripe. In short, the 2016 Calon Ségur is a wine of pure and total sensuality. Technical Director Vincent Millet and his team did a tremendous job with the 2016. Tasted three times." 1/19

98 Points, James Suckling: "Superb aromas of crushed berries, violets and sandalwood with hints of cedar and roses. Full body, very fine tannins and savory, delicious fruit. Vibrant acidity combines beautifully with the fruit and structure. Harmonious and attractive. Fine-toned. Try after 2024." 2/19

97 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com: JD #9 Red Wine of the Year "A monumental wine in the making, the 2016 Château Calon-Ségur is blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot that spent a full 20 months in all new French oak. It offers an incredibly powerful, concentrated, classic style in its crème de cassis, graphite, scorched earth, tobacco, and lead pencil aromas and flavors. These give way to an inky, full-bodied 2016 that has perfectly integrated acidity and tannins, subtle background oak, thrilling depth and purity of fruit, and a great, great finish. My money is on it being the greatest wine ever made at this address. Although it shines even today on its purity and balance, it needs 5-7 years of bottle age to hit prime time and will keep for three to four decades." 02/19