In 1992, Jean-Claude Rouzaud, oenologist and Board Chairman of Champagne Louis Roederer, acquired and combined two Cru Bourgeois vineyards in the heart of the Medoc’s prestigious Saint-Estèphe appellation: Château Picard and Château Beauséjour. Together, these properties make up what is now called Château Haut-Beauséjour.
The 20 hectare Saint-Estèphe vineyard of Château Haut-Beauséjour is dominated by Merlot. The vineyard is planted to 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. The terroir is gravel and clay with some limestone.
The wine of Château Haut-Beauséjour is vinified in traditional, large wood vats and aged in about 30% new, French oak barrels for about 12 months. On average, close to 8,500 cases of Château Haut-Beauséjour are produced every year. Vatting: 22-30 days.
Early again, bud break began at the end of March. A very dry April saw an episode of heavy frosts sparing the early ripening vineyards of Pauillac and St Estèphe, protected by the proximity of the estuary. Overall dry and sometimes hot, spring favorued early flowering at the end of May under excellent sanitary conditions. Following this, the veraison quickly extended across the vines at the end of July. Some summer rains avoided the risk of water stress and favored maturation. A rainy period occurred during the harvest that began on September 12 between the Merlot and Cabernet harvests. The improvement that followed made it possible to wait for the maturity of the Cabernet until the beginning of October.
A bouquet of strawberry and redcurrant. A long and well-balanced feel in the mouth completes the aromas, offering a precise and fresh wine.
Pairs beautifully with hearty meat dishes, from beef stews to lamb, veal, or roast chicken with mushrooms.
Serve at 16º-18º C.
Wine Spectator
90 POINTS
March 31, 2020, James Molesworth
“Features alluring, gently mulled damson plum and cherry fruit, with enticing red tea and floral notes darting throughout. A light chalky echo permeates the finish, adding length and grace. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2028.”
AOC Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux
62% Merlot
38% Cabernet Sauvignon
Natural Cork
No
No
