2014 Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux, Château Joanin-Bécot
About Producer
This estate in Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux was acquired by the Bécot family, of Château Beau-Séjour Bécot in St-Emilion, in 2001 because of its unique terroir, very similar to those of many better crus in St-Emilion. Joanin-Bécot’s vineyard is 12ha on clay and limestone soil, located at one of the highest elevations along River Dordogne, in the small hamlet of Joanin, near the village of Saint-Philippe d’Aiguilhe where wines are known for their elegance and power.
Varietals
Blend of 75% merlot, 25% cabernet franc from 35 year-old vines. Aged in 65% new oak barrels for 18 months.
About Appellation
Castillon was the site of the battle in 1453 that cost the life of the English commander John Talbot and brought the Hundred Years’ War to an end. This large appellation is essentially the easterly extension of the St-Emilion plateau. This is currently one of Bordeaux most exciting wine producing regions, thanks to investments made by a host of talented winemakers with established reputations, largely in St-Emilion, since the 1990s.
Tasting Notes
Perfumed nose of dark berry fruit, forest floor and floral notes and , fleshy mouthfeel with velvety texture, good breadth and fine precision, juicy flavours of blackberry, plum, liquorice, chocolate, graphite, undergrowth and dried herbs intermingled with subtle mineral undertones, fine acidity and polished tannins carrying through a lovely, long finish. Made by the winemaking team of the famed Château Beau-Séjour Bécot in St-Emilion, this is a succulent wine with delightful charm and lively freshness, while the opulence of fruit being nicely balanced by bright acidity. Capable of standing up to some good St-Emilion at a fraction of their prices, it is a superb example of Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux, an appellation that has gone from strength to strength over the last two decades. (06/2021)