A legendary wine from an exceptional year
Château Cheval Blanc 2018 is a model of elegance and complexity, from one of the most prestigious wineries in Saint-Émilion. As a Premier Grand Cru Classé A, this wine combines the power of Merlot with the finesse of Cabernet Franc, resulting in a wine of unprecedented depth and balance.
Tasting notes
In the glass, the wine shows a deep ruby purple color. The nose is intense and complex, with aromas of stewed plums, juicy black cherries and ripe blackberries, complemented by nuances of damp earth, black truffles, rose oil and cardamom. When swirled, hints of undergrowth and iron ore emerge. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a density of rich black fruits and earthy notes, framed by firm, grainy tannins and a seamless freshness that provides a very long, layered finish.
Reviews & Awards
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Robert Parker (Wine Advocate) : 98+ points – "The 2018 Cheval Blanc is a blend of 54% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet purple in colour, it needs considerable swirling and air to release fragrant notes of stewed plums, juicy black cherries and ripe blackberries, with underlying suggestions of damp earth, black truffles, rose oil and cardamom with swirls of undergrowth and iron ore."
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Decanter : 100 points – “A wine of exceptional quality and complexity.”
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James Suckling : 96 points – “Shows beautiful balance and elegance with aromas of dark berries, smoky spices and a hint of tobacco.”
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CellarTracker : Average score of 96.8 points based on 20 reviews.
Wine and food
This wine really comes into its own alongside refined dishes such as:
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Roasted rack of lamb with rosemary
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Filet mignon with a truffle sauce
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Duck breast with a red currant sauce
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Roasted game dishes such as venison or wild boar
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Matured cheeses such as Comté or old Gouda
Particulars
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Origin : Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
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Classification : Premier Grand Cru Classé A
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Grape variety : 54% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon
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Alcohol percentage : 14.5%
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Maturation : 18 months maturation in French oak barrels, 100% of which are new
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Production : Limited to 33 of the 43 lots in production
Serving advice
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Serving temperature : 16–18°C
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Decanting : Recommended to decant 1 hour before serving
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Storage potential : Up to 2050 and possibly longer under optimal conditions