Area under vines: 41 hectares
Soils: clayey, gravelly and sandy
Average age of the vines: 40 years
Planting density: 6500 vines/ha
Production: 150 000 bottles a year
Ageing: in new oak barrels
Grape varieties:
Second wine: LE PETIT CHEVAL
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The 2019 Cheval Blanc is much more understated on the nose compared to its peers. Cedar and graphite merge with black fruit, but it is missing a bit of vigor at present. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, quite structured though a little more austere and drier. Grouchy, which makes me think of Lafleur when it’s young. Very impressive length though. A deceptive wine. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.
Anticipated maturity: 2027-2055
58% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. 82% of production. Barrel sample. Aromatically a little more reserved than the 2018 at this stage. But ripe, intense and flickeringly floral. Beautifully poised on the palate with a density of fruit and silky texture of finely matted tannins. Pure, seductive and persistent, the finish long and digeste. A super Cheval Blanc but 2018 may just have the edge. (JL)
Anticipated maturity: 2027-2050
