BACKGROUND
Château Calon Ségur, located in the Saint-Estèphe appellation of Bordeaux, is one of the region's most cherished wineries, famed for its robust, long-aging wines. Recognized as a third growth in Bordeaux's 1855 classification, Calon Ségur has a rich history and a distinctive place in the Médoc as the northernmost classified growth.
Photo Credits: Château Calon Ségur
The origins of Calon date back to the Gallo-Roman era, with its name derived from 'calones'—small boats that once navigated the Gironde River. Wine production here can be traced back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest vineyards in the area. Over the centuries, the estate was owned by notable figures, including Nicolas-Alexandre, the Marquis de Ségur, who also owned prestigious estates such as Château Latour and Château Lafite. Known as the 'Prince of Vines,' Nicolas-Alexandre was one of the most influential men in Bordeaux and even managed to captivate the court at Versailles with his wines. Despite his connection to these First Growth châteaux, the Marquis famously declared, 'I make wine at Lafite and Latour, but my heart is at Calon Ségur.' Today, the label features a heart around the Château's name, a lasting tribute to the Marquis's affection for the estate, which was added at the beginning of the 20th century.
Photo Credits: Château Calon Ségur
Photo Credits: Château Calon Ségur
Calon Ségur's 55-hectare vineyard is uniquely situated as a single plot, sheltered behind a stone wall. The vineyard's clay and gravel soils contribute to the depth and complexity of its wines, and it is planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. These varieties produce wines with remarkable structure, character, and longevity—qualities that make Calon Ségur a standout in the Saint-Estèphe region. The estate's celebrated first wine, Château Calon Ségur, is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, while the second wine, Le Marquis de Calon Ségur, focuses mainly on Merlot. Additionally, a third wine, La Chapelle de Calon, rounds out the portfolio.
Photo Credits: Château Calon Ségur
Photo Credits: Château Calon Ségur
Later owned by the Capbern Gasqueton family for over a century, Calon Ségur was acquired in 2012 by Suravenir Assurances, who continue the estate's legacy of quality. With recent top vintages, including 2016, 2018, and 2019, Château Calon Ségur remains a prestigious Bordeaux estate, producing wines that embody both tradition and enduring excellence.
Photo Credits: Château Calon Ségur
Check out the lineup for this tasting: