In Bond Fine Wine. 2013 Château Cheval Cheval Blanc, Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, France. Premier Grand Cru Classé A • Red Bordeaux in 3x150cl. Top critic score: 93/100 (JA). Drinking window: 2023–2036. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau Cheval Blanc occupies a singular place in Bordeaux’s hierarchy. A blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot in nearly equal measure, Cheval Blanc delivers a signature style that marries silk and spice: vivid red-berry and floral aromatics, plush texture, and a subtle graphite-like minerality. On the market, Cheval Blanc rivals the Medoc First Growths and commands some of Bordeaux’s highest prices.
Jane Anson (JA) — 93/100 · Inside Bordeaux, 22/02/2023 · Drink 2023-2036
One of the best of the lineup, this has supple tannins, nuanced raspberry and redcurrant fruit, with lift and juice through the finish. Still an early drinker with higher acidity than in most years of this wine, but one that is worth seeking out and enjoying, with just a hint of the magic of these soils. 60% 1st wine with the rest divided into 20% Petit Cheval, with 20% declassified.
Neal Martin (NM) — 90/100 · Vinous, 01/08/2023 · Drink 2023-2033
The 2013 Cheval Blanc has an attractive, slightly ferrous nose of light red fruit, loam and white pepper scents. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, very simple for Cheval Blanc, though endowed with a sense of weight and personality. White pepper and clove appear toward the finish. This should be drunk over the next decade. Tasted at Bordeaux Index's 10-Year On tasting.
Ian D'Agata (IDA) — 90–92/100 · Inside Bordeaux, 01/05/2014
(53% cabernet franc and 47% merlot): Luminous ruby color. Captivating aromas of strawberry, raspberry, minerals, violet and graphite: very cab franc! The palate offers an uncanny combination of sweetness and penetrating power, with brisk acidity framing and lifting the fine-grained flavors of blackcurrant, spearmint and aromatic spices. The very long, slowly mounting finish conveys an impression…