Ch Meyney 2012: What to buy in Bordeaux

Forget the 2024s. The back catalogue is often where you will find the most interesting buys in Bordeaux. Ch Meyney 2012 is a case in point. The chateau has been a quietly consistent overperformer in St Estephe for some time, and the 2012 is drinking brilliantly now. It offers terrific value at just £27.59 per bottle including VAT. 

Ch Meyney is propitiously located in St Estephe right next to Ch Montrose. Like its prestigious neighbour, Meyney benefits from breezes from the nearby Gironde. The chateau is also fortunate in having access to ample funding courtesy of its owner Credit Agricole, one of France’s biggest banks. This has been put to good use both in the vineyard – where soil analysis has revealed five different types of gravel – and in the winery, where a revamped cuverie has enabled more precise vinification.

2012 is a significant year at Meyney. The chateau began farming organically with this vintage, and have continued on this path ever since. The 2012 is a blend of 42% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Petit Verdot. The Petit Verdot component, which comes from an outstanding plot of 70 year old vines, is particularly significant this year, giving richness and spice to the wine. “Commendable weight and density”, says Neal Martin on Vinous. 

This is a terrific showing from Ch Meyney, a St Estephe property that deserves to be better known. With over a decade in bottle, it is already showing notable complexity but has plenty of structure to age further. Buy some now to drink over the next decade.

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