The 2018 Fonbadet Bordeaux Blend, hailing from the Pauillac sub-region of Bordeaux, France, presents itself as a formidable contender among its peers. Composed of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot, this red wine is aged in 50% new French oak, reaching an alcohol content of 14.5%.

The wine has received commendable scores from various reviewers. Antonio Galloni of Vinous awarded it an impressive 94 points, praising it as "superb" and "classically elegant." He noted its "exquisite finesse" and described flavors of "red berry, floral, blood orange, and mint," highlighting its "nuanced, persistent finish."

Jeb Dunnuck also recognized the wine's potential, giving it 92 points and describing it as a "Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend" with "lots of darker berry fruits, scorched earth, graphite, and mineral-like aromas and flavors." He emphasized its "beautiful balance" and suggested it would benefit from additional aging.

Jeff Leve from The Wine Cellar Insider also rated the wine at 92 points, enjoying its "flowers, smoke, licorice, thyme, tobacco, and red fruits." He found it "full-bodied, with layers of ripe, juicy, sweet cassis, cigar wrapper, and cedar."

Other reviewers, including Decanter and Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, awarded the 2018 Fonbadet 91 points. Decanter's review highlighted its "rich dark liquorice" character and "vibrancy," while Lisa Perrotti-Brown from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate noted its "evocative scents of stewed black plums, blackcurrant cordial, and chocolate-covered cherries."

Overall, the 2018 Fonbadet exhibits a harmonious blend of fruit, minerality, and structure, making it a well-regarded choice for those seeking a refined Bordeaux experience. The consensus among reviewers suggests it is both approachable now and capable of evolving further with age.