Wines Saint-Julien Château Beychevelle - Grand Vin - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Château Beychevelle 2018 is an emblematic Grand Cru Classé from the prestigious Saint-Julien appellation in Bordeaux’s Médoc region. This cuvée, the estate’s flagship wine, is a classic Bordeaux blend, typically composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and a touch of Petit Verdot, though the precise blend may vary by vintage. The 2018 vintage is characterised by its remarkable balance and concentration, a direct result of an ideal growing season with ample sun after a challenging, wet spring. Vinification at Château Beychevelle involves meticulous sorting, fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, and ageing in French oak barrels—of which a significant proportion is new—endowing the wine with both structure and aromatic complexity. In the glass, expect a deep, garnet hue with expressive aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, violets, cedar, and subtle spices. On the palate, the wine is elegant yet powerful, with velvety tannins, ripe dark fruit, and a persistent, refined finish.

The Saint-Julien appellation lies at the heart of the Médoc, nestled between the more robust wines of Pauillac and the softer, more perfumed styles of Margaux. The terroir of Saint-Julien is marked by deep gravelly soils atop clay and limestone, providing exceptional drainage and regulating vine vigour. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with the nearby Gironde estuary offering protection from frost and extremes of temperature. Saint-Julien’s storied châteaux, including Beychevelle, have long been associated with quality and finesse, reflecting centuries of winemaking tradition since the Bordeaux classification of 1855.

For food pairing, Château Beychevelle 2018 shines alongside classic Bordeaux dishes such as entrecôte à la Bordelaise (ribeye in red wine sauce), roast lamb with herbs, or duck breast with a reduction of cherries or blackcurrants. The wine’s structure and aromatic profile also make it an excellent companion to mature cheeses, such as aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire, and more delicate dishes like wild mushroom risotto or venison with a berry jus.

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of this wine, serve it at 16-18°C after decanting for one to two hours. This will allow the youthful intensity and integrated oak to reveal the full spectrum of flavours. Château Beychevelle 2018 promises further evolution in bottle, but is already a remarkable experience today.