Bordeaux 2018 Vintage Special-Chateau Cheval Blanc 2017 tasting notes and ratings

Cheval Blanc suffered from the frost; about 30% of the vines were touched, especially the Cabernet Franc on the clay. All frozen vines were pruned again to get “second generation” shoots. Two thirds of this second generation made it into the Grand Vin. Cheval Blanc sold 15% of declassified wines in bulk. The volume produced was lower than usual, especially of the second wine. There will be only 4 to 4.500 bottles of the Petit Cheval and the chateau decided not to release the second wine en primeur. Of the Cheval Blanc 60% will be sold en primeur. The other 40% will be kept at the chateau to be sold at a later stage.

Chateau Cheval Blanc 2017 (19+ points)

Le Petit Cheval 2017 (18- points)
[48% Cabernet Franc and 52% Merlot]

Brilliant clear ruby color. A very interesting expressive nose with some mint and floral notes. On the palate there is the great freshness combined with the well-integrated tannins. Nice crisp red fruit and a decent length for a second wine. Good balance.

Chateau Cheval Blanc 2017 (19+ points)
[56% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon]

Less Cabernet Franc than usual and 14% of the Cabernet Sauvignon from the gravely plots near Figéac. The color of this wine is way deeper than the Petit Cheval with purple and ruby hints. Rather shy nose with some hints of red and black fruit (blackcurrant), mint and pepper.
In the mouth this wine is not round or velvety but it is the tension that is interesting. Beautifully ripe fruit and to hints of greenness whatsoever. Not flirting with over-ripeness or greenness, the grapes were picked at exactly the right moment! Well integrated tight-knit tannins. Good freshness. Almost a hint of sweetness and extremely long.