Calvert Woodley Catalog 2025 - Flipbook - Page 7
Bordeaux Travelog
B
ack in September, I had the privilege of taking my first trip to Bordeaux—a journey I had not
expected to happen so soon after my acquisition of Calvert Woodley. However, it was a muchneeded trip for someone deeply invested in the long-standing relationships Calvert Woodley has built
with many of the region’s most respected châteaux. This visit was about more than tasting wine—it
was about deepening connections, understanding legacies, and sharing stories with the people who
bring these wines to life.
Our first stop set the tone for the entire trip. At Château PontetCanet, we were welcomed by Alfred Tesseron himself, who
graciously hosted us for lunch in the château’s kitchen. We were joined
by a wonderful group from Miami, including Bob Dickinson, who, as it
turns out, purchased Bordeaux futures from Calvert Woodley from Ed
Sands in the ‘80s. Over the course of the lunch, Mr. Tesseron opened
four remarkable vintages (2016, 2009, 1982, and 2005)—served blind
to challenge our palates—and we enjoyed an afternoon of laughter,
stories, and unforgettable wine.
At Château Phélan Ségur, I had the chance to meet Veronique
Dausse, whose encouragement was instrumental in making this trip a
reality. Her warm welcome reminded me just how deeply personal
Jay & Alfred Tesseron
relationships influence the world of wine.
As we traveled through the Médoc and into Saint-Julien, SaintJay with Daniel and Florence
Cathiard
Estèphe, Margaux, and Saint-Émilion, each stop revealed something
special. At Leoville Barton and Langoa Barton, I connected with
Damien Barton Sartorius, the next-generation owner whose passion
for tradition and innovation mirrors my own excitement for the future
of wine at Calvert Woodley. Over dinner, we found common ground
not just in business, but in life—family, beginnings, and the road ahead.
Our visit to Smith Haut Lafitte offered a glimpse into the elegance
of white Bordeaux. Tasting the 2022 and 2023 side-by-side with
Florence and Daniel Cathiard and Ludovic Fradin, followed by a
beautifully aged 2007, reminded me just how graceful these wines can
be across time. It was one of many moments that affirmed the patience
Jay & Damien Barton
and craftsmanship required in this work.
Underground Cellar at
We also spent time in Lalande-de-Pomerol, where we visited
Smith Haut Lafitte
Château Moncets in Néac. There, I got to know Julien Noël, the
estate’s director and winemaker. Like Damien Barton, Julien represents a
new generation—one that honors Bordeaux’s history while embracing
innovation and sustainability. These conversations gave me a deeper
understanding of where the region is headed, and how Calvert Woodley
can continue to be a bridge between Bordeaux and our customers.
At Château Barde-Haut, our final visit, we were welcomed into the
home of Helene Garcin-Leveque and her husband Patrice Leveque.
That evening, gathered around a fire with Michael, Helene and Patrice, it
was amazing to hear the stories and memories that have been created
among them over the years. Exactly the type of memories I hope to
Jay & Veronique Sanders
Jay & Michael Sands
create as time continues at Calvert Woodley. It was the perfect ending
to a trip filled with warmth, insight, and inspiration.
Every château we visited—from Montrose to Mouton Rothschild, Angelus to Figeac, Haut-Bailly to La Conseillante—has
wines that we’re proud to carry at Calvert Woodley. Each bottle represents a story, a person, a vineyard, and a shared passion for
excellence. One of the only estates we visited whose wines are exclusively allocated is Château Le Pin, and it was a true honor to set
foot on such hallowed ground.
This trip reminded me of why we do what we do. Wine isn’t just something we sell—it’s something we live. I look forward to bringing
these experiences, relationships, and wines home to you this holiday season.
Warmest wishes,
Jay Patel
Owner
CA LV E R T W O O D L E Y
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