2004 Château Calon-Ségur in its 1500ml Magnum format represents a classic, old-school Saint-Estèphe claret. Often overshadowed by the blockbuster 2003 or 2005 vintages, 2004 was a cooler, late-harvest year that yielded deeply savory wines with elegant structure. In a magnum, this vintage has evolved incredibly well, developing beautiful tertiary depth while retaining its signature refreshing acidity and fine tannic core. 

Wine Specifications

Producer: Château Calon-Ségur (3rd Growth, Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux) Grape Blend: 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc (with minor traces of Petit Verdot) Alcohol (ABV): 13% Drinking Window: Now to 2035 (Magnums are singing beautifully at this stage, presenting an open, fully integrated maturity)

Tasting Profile

On the Nose: Expressive secondary profiles of cigar tobacco leaf, cedar, iron, and a distinct hint of mocha/coffee. Softly supported by mature red fruit aromas like dark cherries, plums, and dried currants.  On the Palate: Medium-bodied with a linear, savory flow and fantastic freshness. Shows refined layers of leather, china tea, sweet spices, and wet earthy minerals. Infused with a powdery, chalky core of tannins that have fully softened, giving it a supple yet persistent grip.  The Finish: Crisp, lengthier, and satisfyingly dry, fading out with lingering accents of herbal mint and delicate, toasted cloves. 

Key Critic Ratings

Jancis Robinson: 17.5 / 20 James Suckling: 91 points (“Very ready. At its peak.”) Wine Spectator: 90 points Neal Martin / Robert Parker: 89 points (Noted it as a solid, slightly chunky, classic expression of Saint-Estèphe terroir)