Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, Aquitaine Travel Guide

Nestled on the limestone plateau of Saint-Martin de Mazerat, in the heart of Saint-Émilion, lies Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, a Premier Grand Cru Classé B estate with a rich history dating back to Roman times. The estate's name, meaning "beautiful stay," reflects the sense of tranquility and charm that permeates the property. The story of Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is intertwined with the history of Saint-Émilion itself. The Romans first cultivated vines here over 2,000 years ago, recognizing the area's potential for producing exceptional wines. In the Middle Ages, monks of the Church of St-Martin managed the vineyards, laying the foundation for the estate's future success. The property was later owned by the Gerès family in the 17th century and then by the de Carle family, seigneurs of Figeac, who officially named it Beauséjour in 1787. In 1869, the estate was divided between Pierre-Paulin Ducarpe's two children. His daughter's portion eventually became Château Beauséjour-Duffau-Lagarosse, while his son's portion was sold to Doctor Jean Fagouet in 1924, who renamed it Château Beauséjour-Dr-Fagouet. The Bécot family, established in Saint-Émilion since the French Revolution, acquired the estate in 1969, giving it its current name, Château Beau-Séjour Bécot. Michel Bécot spearheaded extensive modernization efforts, leading to the estate's reclassification as a Premier Grand Cru Classé in 1996 after a brief demotion in 1985. Today, Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is managed by the sixth generation of the Bécot family, including Juliette Bécot and her husband, Julien Barthe, who continue to uphold the estate's commitment to excellence. The estate spans 22 hectares, with a terroir characterized by clay and deep limestone soils. The vineyard is planted with 70% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, with vines averaging 40 years old. The estate practices responsible agriculture to preserve the natural balance of the terroir and environment. One of the unique features of Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is its network of underground limestone quarries, which cover 7 hectares beneath the vineyard. These ancient quarries provide ideal conditions for storing wine, with consistent temperatures year-round. Visitors can explore these impressive cellars during tours of the estate. The winemaking process at Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is a blend of tradition and innovation. Grapes are harvested manually and sorted meticulously. Vinification takes place in stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation in barrels. The wine is aged for 16 months in 65% new French oak barrels and 35% in tanks, amphorae, and casks. The estate produces a Grand Vin, Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, and a second wine, Tournelle de Beau-Séjour Bécot, as well as the "Vin de garage", La Gomerie. A visit to Château Beau-Séjour Bécot offers a comprehensive experience for wine lovers. Tours include an overview of the terroir, winemaking facilities, and a visit to the underground quarry tunnels. Guests can also enjoy tastings of the château's different wines, including the Premier Grand Cru Classé, Beau-Séjour Bécot, and the high-end La Gomerie. More affordable options like Joanim Bécot and Bernon Bécot are also available. Located just a short distance from the town of Saint-Émilion, Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is easily accessible for tourists. The estate offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is within walking distance of the town and train station. Saint-Émilion itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful medieval architecture, underground church, and world-class wines. Visitors can explore the town's winding streets, sample local delicacies, and discover the rich history and culture of the region. Château Beau-Séjour Bécot stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of winemaking in Saint-Émilion. With its exceptional terroir, commitment to quality, and dedication to preserving tradition, the estate continues to produce wines that are celebrated around the world. A visit to Château Beau-Séjour Bécot is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the heart of Bordeaux's wine country.