Cheval Blanc is without question one of the greatest properties in Bordeaux but there is something slightly mystical about this château. I can’t quite put my finger on it, maybe it is because it is less well known than the First Growths, or there are such small volumes produced. One thing I have noticed: only a select few seem to drink it, so I guess it is less well documented. As far as quality, Cheval Blanc is second to none, it has produced some outstanding wines and debatably one of the most iconic wines of Bordeaux which is the 1947 Cheval Blanc.
Last week I had the opportunity to drink the 1985 Cheval Blanc. It was opened and decanted in the office, I tasted then and it was lovely. However three hours later at the restaurant, it had taken on a whole new meaning. It was nothing short of sensational. It was completely gorgeous, it was wonderfully rich and seductive with seamless tannins, the expanse across the palate was extraordinary. This wine was so at ease with itself; completely ethereal, it continued to grow and develop in the glass during the course of the evening, just amazing.
In the wine trade we are lucky enough to try some fantastic wines and every now and then you get a complete show stopper. This is without question one of those, a truly brilliant wine. It is already 33 years old and still has plenty of life ahead of it.
View all Ch Cheval Blanc wines here.
Hot off the press – Albert Frère, co-owner of Cheval Blanc, has passed away. To see more about him click here.