Chateau Cheval Blanc - Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Red 2006

Grapes

Merlot 40%, Cabernet Franc 60%

Tasting notes

The weather this year was very favourable to Merlot. This variety accounts for typical ripe red fruit aromas that marry marvellously with the aromatic finesse of ripe Cabernet Franc. 2006 Cheval Blanc has a powerful, attractive nose of ripe red fruit and Virginia tobacco, reflecting the benefits of barrel ageing. The wine starts out full-bodied and rich, combining the smoothness of Merlot and the aromatic elegance of Cabernet Franc. Complementing its impressive fruitiness, the rich tannin and balance go into a wonderful long aftertaste. While not attaining the exceptional concentration of 2005, 2006 Cheval Blanc is a rich, powerful, harmonious wine that will age for decades.

Expert Ratings

96-98 Wine Enthusiast

'Dark chocolate and mocha flavors, very dark and intense, this is a big, concentrated wine, flavored with bitter cherries and structured. Certainly a great Cheval Blanc. (RV)' (6/2007)

97 Wine Advocate

'Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London.The 2006 Château Cheval Blanc is a blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc. It has the most floral bouquet of the four Serié A Grand Cru Classé: an explosion of crushed violets and potpourri, hints of leather and cigar box, the Cabernet Franc clearly lending this complexity and character. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. It feels wonderfully structured and comes with an insistent grip that coats the mouth. This is backward and almost surly, but you have to stand back and admire the precision and arching structure on the mineral-rich finish. Top-dog Saint Emilion? That's for sure. Tasted January 2016. (NM) '

95 Wine Spectator

' Displays lots of milk chocolate, cedar, berry and cappuccino aromas. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins, this is structured and layered for the vintage. Mouthpuckering. Needs time. This is one of the wines of the vintage. (JS) '

95 Wine & Spirits

94 Decanter