2021 Cheval Blanc
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Tasting notes
The 2021 Cheval Blanc is a clear highlight of the vintage in Saint-Emilion and Bordeaux. The wine retains all the finer elements of the vintage – with finesse and aromatic complexity, but finds higher levels of concentration, both in tannins and fruit, than many of its neighbours. The result is a wine that has a beautiful arc from start to finish. The nose remains quite compact and restrained, offering lovely hints of quality oak, with pepper spice beautifully melding with dark fruit tones. The stacked tannins are first-rate, integrated perfectly with the tremendous amount of fleshy fruity on the palate and great balance throughout.
Critic scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Deep crimson. Rich and layered on the nose. Intriguing! More obvious charm and sweetness than some of its peers. There is complexity and potential here. (JR)
The Grand Vin 2021 Château Cheval Blanc is unquestionably a candidate for the wine of the vintage. Based on 52% Cabernet Franc, 43% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon (the 2011 comes close to this blend), it has a vivid purple hue as well as gorgeous aromatics of black raspberries, spring flowers, cassis, freshly sharpened pencils, and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, and incredibly elegant, it has plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. While it already offers pleasure, it deserves 4-5 years in the cellar and will shine over the following two decades.
The 2021 Cheval Blanc, the first vintage since 2011 with over half Cabernet Franc, has a very deep color in the glass. The nose is well-defined with tightly coiled red fruit and iodine scents, graphite and light incense aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with finely chiseled tannins, an unerring symmetry and a silky smooth finish. This is where the pedigree of the vineyards stands out: very harmonious and very deep, with gentle grip. Yet there is impressive power in this wine, and I suspect as such it will be one of the longest to mature in bottle.
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.