From a 41-acre vineyard situated on St.-Emilion’s limestone plateau, Beau-Sejour-Becot’s blend can vary, but it is approximately 70% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. Production can be as low as 4,000+ cases (in a tiny vintage such as 2003), or as high as 7,000+ cases (in an abundant year such as 2004). The 2003, which reminds me of a 1990 Right Bank Bordeaux, tips the scales at 13.5% alcohol. Its dark plum/ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of creosote, scorched earth, black cherries, currants, and pain grille. Deep, full-flavored, muscular, textured, and rich with light to moderate tannin in the finish, this lavishly rich, full-bodied effort requires 1-3 years of bottle age, and should drink well over the following 12-15.

89-91 An exotic, smoky, tarry wine which has great ripe tannins and subtle flavors of new wood. It is smooth, polished but with the promise of power.——R.V.(6/3/2004)—— 90