Le Petit Cheval 2018

Characteristics and tasting advice for Petit Cheval 2018 from Château Cheval Blanc

Tasting

Color
Beautiful ruby red color.

Nose
The nose reveals balsamic notes, cocoa, caramel, and vanilla, accompanied by fruity aromas of cherry and strawberry. Fragrances of licorice and blond tobacco provide a tasty freshness.

Palate
A broad and silky attack precedes a balanced palate with delicate tannins. The finish is long on notes of ripe red fruits.

A second wine from Saint-Émilion combining power and elegance

The property

Château Cheval Blanc, founded in 1832 in Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, extends over 39 hectares of vineyards, mainly composed of merlot (54%) and cabernet franc (40%). Purchased in 1998 by Albert Frère and Bernard Arnault, the estate has been managed by Pierre-Olivier Clouet since 2023, succeeding Pierre Lurton, now chairman of the management board.

The vintage

Spring 2018 was very rainy with heavy precipitation, especially in March. Dry weather set in from June 15. July and August saw very little rain without excessive temperatures. A drier September allowed for good grape maturation.

Vinification and aging

This Saint-Émilion wine underwent parcel vinification with indigenous yeasts. The aging took place over 16 months in barrels, 50% new and 50% of one wine.

Blend

Merlot (70%), cabernet franc (30%).