| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Right Bank > St Emilion |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
Peter Kwok from Hong Kong recently purchased 13.5 hectare Bellefont-Belcier to add to his rapidly growing portfolio of right bank properties - including Enclos Tourmaline and La Tour Saint Christophe. The property is situated between Château Larcis Ducasse and Tertre Roteboeuf on the south-facing slopes and plateau of Saint Emilion.
The wine-maker here is now Jean-Christophe Meyrou (formerly of Le Gay and La Violette) with Thomas Duclot (of Canon) his consultant. Although they bought the property in 2017, Jean-Christophe feels that 2018 is his first proper vintage. The blend is 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from a yield of 37 hl/ha. Elevage in 30% new oak, 10% foudre, 60% in barrels of 1 or 2 years.
From a beautifully situated hillside vineyard, sandwiched between Larcis Ducasse and Tertre Roteboeuf on either side, with holdings belonging to Pavie and Troplong Mondot on the plateau above, the 2019 Bellefont Belcier has turned out very well indeed. Offering up aromas of smoky berry fruit, loamy soil, subtle spices, black truffle and violets, it's full-bodied, velvety and seamless, with a vibrant, enveloping profile and a long, penetrating finish. This is a terrific effort, though given the thoughtful farming and program of replanting that is underway at this long-neglected estate, I suspect it only hints at what is to come as Jean-Christophe Meyrou and his team get to work. 2025 - 2050
The 2019 Bellefont-Belcier was very impressive from barrel, and I have no reason to change that view in bottle. This is beautifully defined on the nose, which features vivacious red fruit laced with graphite and crushed stone. The palate is medium-bodied with finely chiseled tannins, fine tension and an almost pastille-like, graphite-tinged finish that lingers in the mouth. Superb. Drink 2026-2050.
This is very complex with super fine, silky tannins that just take off. Full bodied with berry, chocolate and walnut flavors. Mushrooms and cedar, too.
