1994 Cheval Blanc
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Tasting notes
The 1994 Cheval Blanc is a vintage that I have not tasted for many years. It was a year that saw a large yield for Merlot but less for Cabernet Franc. It has a markedly rustic nose that belongs to a different era: ferrous in style, quite Pomerol-like. The palate is medium-bodied with (again) rustic tannins; it is fully mature. The 1994 is a little lactic towards the espresso-tinged finish that feels a bit one-dimensional and austere. It's not bad, but it's not a great Cheval Blanc due to some dilution. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
It is many years since I last tasted the 1994 Château Cheval Blanc. Here it has an intriguing nose with expressive Cabernet Franc aromas that develop more floral, wilted petal tones with aeration. There are touches of desiccated red cherry and bacon fat. The palate is medium-bodied and nicely structured, quite savory in the mouth and showing some austerity towards the harmonious finish. It is a little curmudgeonly perhaps and I would consume bottles in the next 5-8 years, as it is not going to go anywhere. Tasted March 2015.
Firm and austere. It offers full, slightly dry tannins, with cherry, licorice and light herbal flavors. Needs time to soften. best after 2002.--Cheval-Blanc vertical.-James Suckling, Wine Spectator 1999
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.