2021 Cheval Blanc
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2021 Cheval Blanc is a clear highlight of the vintage in Saint-Emilion and Bordeaux. The wine retains all the finer elements of the vintage – with finesse and aromatic complexity, but finds higher levels of concentration, both in tannins and fruit, than many of its neighbours. The result is a wine that has a beautiful arc from start to finish. The nose remains quite compact and restrained, offering lovely hints of quality oak, with pepper spice beautifully melding with dark fruit tones. The stacked tannins are first-rate, integrated perfectly with the tremendous amount of fleshy fruity on the palate and great balance throughout.
Critic scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Deep crimson. Rich and layered on the nose. Intriguing! More obvious charm and sweetness than some of its peers. There is complexity and potential here. (JR)
The Grand Vin 2021 Château Cheval Blanc is unquestionably a candidate for the wine of the vintage. Based on 52% Cabernet Franc, 43% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon (the 2011 comes close to this blend), it has a vivid purple hue as well as gorgeous aromatics of black raspberries, spring flowers, cassis, freshly sharpened pencils, and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, and incredibly elegant, it has plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. While it already offers pleasure, it deserves 4-5 years in the cellar and will shine over the following two decades.
Rich and explosive in feel, the 2021 Cheval Blanc is outrageously beautiful. For the first time since 2011, the Grand Vin is more than 50% Cabernet Franc. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, dried herbs, menthol, licorice and mocha are all amplified in this potent, luxurious Cheval Blanc. Polished, seamless tannins wrap it all together. This is one of my favorites of the vintage.
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.