93-95. Barrel Sample. From a reliable estate, this wine is firm in feel. It also has open black fruits that pair alongside the generous tannins. It is good long-term aging.

This estate has been on a roll of late, and the 2019 Château Meyney is a terrific wine. Beautiful notes of crème de cassis, spicy oak, dried flowers, and dried tobacco all emerge from the glass, and this beauty is medium to full-bodied, with a seamless texture, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. Count me impressed. Not a powerhouse, it should drink nicely right out of the gate yet also evolve for 20 years or more.

A solid, slightly burly version, featuring streaks of tar and bay leaf mixed with dark plum and black currant preserve flavors. The finish is underscored by a warm paving stone note, which adds cut, drive and a hint of old school. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2024 through 2036. 16,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.

The 2020 Meyney is a very pretty if somewhat understated wine. In 2020 it has a bit less opulence than in the recent past, but that's not a bad thing at all. Silky, elegant and refined, featuring aromatic red fruit character, gravel, cured meat, scorched earth, spice, crushed rocks and rose petals.