1979 Cheval Blanc
Buying options
Tasting notes
My third bottle of 1979 Cheval Blanc confirms a rather run-of-the-mill Saint-Émilion. It’s now showing wide bricking on the rim, and the nose feels a little enervated and leathery, suggesting that the Cabernet did not achieve complete ripeness. The palate is medium-bodied with rustic tannin, and slightly harsh in the mouth, with an attenuated finish. Drink bottles sooner rather than later.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Neal Martin, Vinous
More reviews and scores
At one time elegant, lightweight, and pleasant, the 1979 Cheval Blanc continues to develop in an unexciting fashion. The color is light ruby with a watery edge. The nose offers minty, mineral, earthy, herbaceous aromas backed by some berry and coffee-scented fruit. Light and lacking substance, with a short, angular finish, this wine was more enjoyable several years ago. Drink it up. Last tasted, 5/93. Aug 1993, www.robertparker.com
About the producer

Ch. Cheval Blanc is one the finest producers in Bordeaux. The Saint-Emilion estate’s Cabernet Franc-dominant wines are consistently among the top wines of the vintage.