Representing the magnificent Right Bank, Le Petit Cheval is the coveted second wine of the legendary Premier Grand Cru Classé estate, Château Cheval Blanc. Made with the identical meticulous craftsmanship, cutting-edge facilities, and strict standards as the Grand Vin, this 2018 selection represents just 10% of the estate's total harvest—making it a highly sought-after, premium acquisition for any serious cellar.
The 2018 vintage shines from a sun-drenched, warm growing year that yielded an opulent, fleshy, and intensely concentrated blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Bursting with dark fruit, rich texture, and remarkably velvety tannins, this pristine bottle is incredibly approachable today compared to its older brother. Decant for 60 to 90 minutes to watch it beautifully unfold, or let it cellar securely for another decade or more.
Critical Acclaim:
95 Points, Jeb Dunnuck:
" ... comes from designated parcels and is 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc brought up in a mix of new and used barrels. It shares similarities to its big brother with its complex, layered bouquet of red and black currants, ripe cherries, camphor, leafy tobacco, cedarwood, and flowers. Beautifully textured, medium-bodied, and as elegant as they come on the palate, this gorgeous Saint-Emilion can be drunk any time over the coming 15-20 years. It's one of the top second wines in the vintage."
94 Points, James Suckling:
"This shows beautiful density of fruit, but the tannins arrive at the end and show impressive length and density. Full body. Wild fruit. Excellent second wine from Cheval."
94 Points, Wine Enthusiast:
" ... rich and structured in its own right. It offers powerful tannins as well as ripe, smoky fruitiness. Blackberry flavors vie with structured richness, always keeping a center of freshness."