Château Cheval Blanc, Petit Cheval, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux, 2011

Overview of the Wine
The present-day Cheval Blanc vineyards had vines at least as far back as the 18th century, as shown by Belleyme's map of the region dated 1764. Nearly a century later, the estate was acquired by the Fourcaud-Laussac family who owned it until 1998, when it was sold to Mr Bernard Arnault and Baron Albert Frère.

The vineyard is in a single block, and borders on the Pomerol appellation. An outstanding terror and unusual proportions of Cabernet Franc and Merlot give this great wine an absolutely unique flavor. Chateau Cheval Blanc has had a greater number of outstanding vintages than any other classified great growth over the past century.

Another unusual characteristic of Cheval Blanc is that once it reaches its peak, it maintains it for a very long time. This admirable wine is powerful, soft, rich, round and silky. It has tremendous fruit and elegance as well as exceptional quality from year to year.

Grape / Blend
33% Merlot, 66% Cabernet franc, 1% Malbec

Origin
Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Petit Cheval is the second wine of the prestigious Château Cheval Blanc, and has been produced since 1988. Located on the edge of Pomerol, this vineyard has a remarkable, unique character. The grape varieties planted are somewhat unusual for the Saint Emilion, with a higher proportion of Cabernet Franc than Merlot, resulting in a rich, full-bodied, intense, smooth wine. Petit Cheval is produced from the vines growing on the sandiest soil. Usually delicious to drink young, it has a potential to age for several years.

91 Points - Wine Enthusiast 
The second wine of Château Cheval Blanc is packed with wood flavors and spice. A toasty wine, it also has solid tannins plus fragrant fruitiness. Already the fruit is coming through strongly and it is for medium-term aging.

90 Points - James Suckling
A wine with pretty balance of fruit and spices, with berry, hazelnut and cocoa. Full to medium body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Second wine of Cheval. Better in 2015.

90 Points - Wine Spectator
Polished, offering good mouthfeel to the layers of fig sauce, crushed plum and licorice. Judicious toast frames the finish, with a hint of charcoal adding length. A little lighter than when tasted from barrel, but still balanced and refined without trying too hard.

 Product size: 750ml