Château Beau-Séjour Bécot 2025

Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot sits on the limestone plateau of Saint-Martin de Mazerat, at the heart of Saint-Emilion on the right bank of Bordeaux, and is classified Premier Grand Cru Classe B. The 2025 leads with Merlot, fleshed out by Cabernet Franc. The plateau's shallow soils over solid limestone are the key to the site: the porous rock holds water through dry spells and reflects a cool, mineral character into the wine, while limestone's influence on acidity keeps the ripe Merlot fresh and lifted. The right bank's clay rich pockets suit Merlot, giving the wine its generous, supple core, while Cabernet Franc adds aromatic lift and a leafy, savoury thread. After fermentation the wine ages in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds spice and structure. In the glass it is deep ruby, with a nose of ripe plum, cherry and red berries over earth, tobacco and fine oak. The palate is full but elegant, with supple tannin, a mineral freshness from the limestone and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted ahead. It suits roast meats and earthy dishes.