1999 Cheval Blanc
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Tasting notes
An appetisting, delicate balance between rich berry fruit and clear tertiary earth, smoked cinammon and cold ash notes, matched by a colour that remains vibrant but is beginning to show some bricking around the edge. The tannins are supple, integrated, and well-placed, with the precision of the estate. Overshadowed by the 1998, and 2000, and yet in a difficult year it was this corner of St Emilion, together with the big names of Pomerol, that fought for the title of wine of the vintage, mainly because they were able to ripen and be picked before the rains. An abundant year in terms of yield, coming in at around 50hl/h. 10% press wine, 1999 Cheval Blanc was aged in 100% new oak barrels. 52% 1st wine, 3.46ph.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 1999 Cheval Blanc is a vintage that has never quite rocked my boat, and at 20 years of age, it still doesn’t. The bouquet feels a little simple and quite high-toned for Cheval Blanc, driven by the Merlot and trying too hard to impress. The palate is medium-bodied with robust tannin and sweet candied red berry fruit tinged with orange peel and brown spices. I appreciate the density, though it is not a precise Cheval Blanc and lacks a bit of personality. One more thing: it does not put sufficient distance between itself and Le Petit Cheval. Tasted from an ex- château bottle at the estate.
Spicy, vegy nose with great, top-quality density and balance. Pretty smart without being too concentrated or sweet. Very fresh and vibrant. Good wine! (JR)
About the producer
Ch. Cheval Blanc is one the finest producers in Bordeaux. The Saint-Emilion estate’s Cabernet Franc-dominant wines are consistently among the top wines of the vintage.