Wine Spectator 95 points - Loads of crushed berries, with mineral, lightly toasted oak and licorice. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is the sleeper of the vintage. Best after 2010. 17,500 cases made. –JS (Mar 31 2006)
Robert Parker 97 points - A compelling effort from Madame Denise Gasqueton, the 2003 Calon-Segur displays a stunning similarity to the 1982 when tasted in March, 1983. The flavors lean more toward the black fruit spectrum as the ripeness and generosity of the estate’s Cabernet Sauvignon was extraordinary in 2003. In 1982 it was the Merlot that proved to be the superior varietal. The blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot has resulted in one of the deepest-colored efforts yet produced by this estate. The black/purple color is accompanied by an opulence and unctuosity that is characteristic of the most successful 2003 northern Medocs. Low acidity, no hints of over-ripeness, and fabulously pure black currant, blackberry, licorice, and underbrush characteristics cascade over the palate with no hard edges. A high tannin level is well-concealed, and the finish lasts for over a minute. Given Calon-Segur’s traditional winemaking and upbringing, this 2003 will no doubt close down (as the 1982 did). Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030.
A compelling effort from Madame Denise Gasqueton, the 2003 Calon-Segur displays a stunning similarity to the 1982 when tasted in March, 1983. The flavors lean more toward the black fruit spectrum as the ripeness and generosity of the estate’s Cabernet Sauvignon was extraordinary in 2003. In 1982 it was the Merlot that proved to be the superior varietal. The blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot has resulted in one of the deepest-colored efforts yet produced by this estate. The black/purple color is accompanied by an opulence and unctuosity that is characteristic of the most successful 2003 northern Medocs. Low acidity, no hints of over-ripeness, and fabulously pure black currant, blackberry, licorice, and underbrush characteristics cascade over the palate with no hard edges. A high tannin level is well-concealed, and the finish lasts for over a minute. Given Calon-Segur’s traditional winemaking and upbringing, this 2003 will no doubt close down (as the 1982 did). Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030. (Apr 2004)
