Chateau Simard - Saint Emilion Grand Cru Red 2018 Magnum

Wine Region: Bordeaux - France

Grape: 65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc.

Tasting notes: 

This cuvée, a Merlot-dominant blend with a smaller percentage of Cabernet Franc, reveals an inviting nose of blackberries, ripe plums, and cherries, accented by hints of violets, cedar, and a touch of spice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a vibrant acidity that adds freshness. Layers of dark fruit, tobacco, and subtle earthiness unfold, leading to a long, elegant finish with notes of cocoa and vanilla from careful oak aging.

Expert Rating:  

J. Suckling94/100
Vinous - A. Galloni90/100
Decanter 90/100

How to enjoy : This wine pairs wonderfully with roasted lamb, grilled steak, or mushroom-based dishes. While approachable now for its ripe fruit and supple tannins, the Château Simard Saint-Émilion 2018 will continue to develop complexity over the next 5–10 years. It is a classic expression of Saint-Émilion, offering both immediate enjoyment and the potential for graceful aging—a superb choice for lovers of refined right bank Bordeaux.

About the winery:Château Simard’s vineyard has excellent exposure and predominantly clay soil mixed with sand and gravel. Château Simard’s classical, refined style can be attributed not only to its fine vineyard location but also to its traditional winemaking practices. The blend each year reflects the vineyard’s makeup of Merlot blended with Cabernet Franc. Elegant and balanced upon release, Château Simard expresses its deep roots in Bordeaux’s famous Right Bank. The wines from Saint-Émilion are known for being sumptuous, with smooth tannins and the ability to age over long periods of time. Château Simard produces only one wine. It is classically elegant, with a refined style that results not only from the excellent vineyard location, but also from traditional winemaking methods employed at the château.

More about Chateau Simard here...