Château Meyney - Saint-Estèphe 375 mL 2020

Château Meyney was first planted with vines in 1662, making it one of the oldest vineyards in the Médoc. The hillside vineyards cover a contiguous 51 hectare block overlooking the Gironde River at an elevation of 20 meters. Proximity to the river provides the vines with excellent protection from frosts throughout the year. The soil consists of the traditional Garrone gravels, but Château Meyney also benefits from a three-meter deep vein of blue-clay in the subsoil (the same type of blue-clay found at Pétrus in Pomerol). This subsoil, combined with the slope of the vineyards towards the water, allows for great drainage and is a major reason why the wines of Meyney are so soft and lush. These are wines that easily rival, and surpass, many Classified Growths.

Château Meyney is a blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot and 11% Petit Verdot. The vinification of the wine is top-notch, utilizing modern techniques to craft a wine of superb finesse and power. Out of the bottle, the wine pours a deep purple color. Seductive aromas of black cassis, plum and Meyney's signature black truffle effortlessly drift from the glass. On the palate, the wine is defined and well-structured, but still soft and inviting. Rich flavors of blueberry and blackberry compote with a touch of vanilla cascade across the palate and lead into a complex, enticing finish that lingers for minutes on end. The 2018 Meyney is a wine that beautifully encapsulates the seductive richness and concentration of the vintage; it is arguably the finest value you can find, not only in Saint-Estèphe, but perhaps in all of Bordeaux. Approachable now, but the wine will benefit from time in a proper cellar. Perfect with a roast beef or seared strip steak served alongside Yorkshire pudding, sautéed green beans and potatoes au Gratin.