Château Roc Meynard
Bordeaux Supérieur
Bordeaux Supérieur, France
2018
Vintage
Varietal
Bordeaux Blend
ABV
Where it is, June 2026
At Peak: in the heart of its drinking window (2023-2029).
In May 2026, the 2018 Chateau Roc Meynard Bordeaux Superieur is past its peak but still drinking well. The wine entered its window in 2021 and peaked between 2023 and 2029. At eight years from harvest, the wine is in the late stages of its peak window, with the fruit still present but beginning to show some secondary development. The freshness that distinguished the wine in its earlier years is softening, and the hard decline is projected around 2032. Drink any remaining bottles now; there is no benefit in further aging. A light decant of 20 to 30 minutes will refresh the nose and palate.
The ‘18 Bordeaux Supérieur.
A fresh, fruit-forward Bordeaux Superieur with ripe dark cherry and spice, drinking well now through 2029 from a generous vintage.
Drinking window
Tasting note
Chateau Roc Meynard produces this Bordeaux Superieur from vineyards on the Entre-Deux-Mers plateau, an area that bridges the Left and Right Bank geographies and produces wines of genuine Bordeaux character at exceptional value price points. The 2018 vintage is a wine of straightforward, honest appeal: ripe red and black fruits form the aromatic core, with dark cherry and blackberry providing the primary expression. Dark spices add complexity and warmth alongside the fruit, and the 2018 vintage's characteristic balance and freshness prevent the wine from feeling heavy or one-dimensional. On the palate the wine is medium-bodied and approachable, with supple tannins that integrate well with the fruit and an acidity that keeps the finish bright. There is a pleasing directness to this wine, an honesty of expression that reflects both the Bordeaux Superieur category and the estate's understanding of its audience. The freshness on the finish is particularly welcome, ensuring the wine remains lively and drinkable rather than sinking into overripe flatness. A reliable, well-made Bordeaux Superieur for immediate enjoyment.
The 2018 vintage
The 2018 Bordeaux vintage produced excellent results across all appellation levels, including the broader Bordeaux Superieur category. The warm, generously fruited growing season delivered wines of good concentration and pleasant spice, and the natural acidity of the Entre-Deux-Mers plateau preserved freshness through the vintage's warmth. For entry-level Bordeaux, 2018 was a notably successful year that produced wines above the historical quality floor for the category.
About Château Roc Meynard
Chateau Roc Meynard is a Bordeaux Superieur estate producing wines from the Entre-Deux-Mers plateau with a focus on approachable, everyday-drinking Bordeaux of genuine character. The estate's winemaking philosophy prioritizes fruit freshness, balance, and the authentic Bordeaux character that sets the region's wines apart from simpler international reds. The Bordeaux Superieur designation requires slightly stricter production standards than basic Bordeaux AOC, resulting in wines with a minimum degree of extra concentration and structure.
From the cellar: pair with
Roast chicken with seasonal vegetables
The wine's approachable fruit and fresh finish make it a versatile match for simple roasted chicken, the classic everyday Bordeaux pairing.
Pasta with Bolognese meat sauce
The medium-bodied structure and dark fruit character of the wine complement the rich, slow-cooked beef and tomato of a classic Bolognese without overpowering it.
Grilled lamb burgers with herbs
The wine's spice notes and fresh acidity pair naturally with herb-seasoned grilled lamb, adding complexity without demanding a formal dining context.
Service & cellaring
- Serving Temp
- 16 to 17 degrees C (61 to 63 degrees F)
- Decanting
- A light 20 to 30 minute decant is sufficient; best enjoyed young and fresh.
- Cellar Storage
- 12 to 14 degrees C (54 to 57 degrees F)
The drinking window on this bottle is calculated with the Cellared Ageability Index (CAI) v1.0, a 10-factor model. Try the free drinking window calculator on any wine, or read when to drink wine for the practical signals.
More from Bordeaux Supérieur, France
Frequently Asked
What is the Bordeaux Superieur designation?
Bordeaux Superieur is a Bordeaux appellation with slightly stricter production requirements than basic Bordeaux AOC, resulting in wines of a minimum extra degree of alcohol and, typically, slightly greater concentration and structure.
Is the 2018 Roc Meynard still worth drinking?
Yes, though it is in the later stages of its window. Drink any remaining bottles now through 2029 for the best experience.
Is this wine suitable for everyday drinking?
Yes. This is an honest, approachable Bordeaux Superieur designed for regular table use and immediate pleasure rather than extended cellaring.
How does Bordeaux Superieur compare to basic Bordeaux AOC?
The Superieur designation requires minimum 11.5 percent alcohol versus 10.5 percent, lower yields, and a minimum 12 months aging before release, resulting in slightly more concentrated and structured wines.