Chateau Cheval Blanc 1 Cheval Blanc, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France

The history begins as the Ducasse family purchases a part of Chateau Figeac’s vineyard in the north-west of Saint-Emilion bordering Pomerol back in 1832. Chateau Cheval Blanc is now 41 hectares that consists of 52% Cabernet Franc, 43% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Many of the vines are planted from 1950’s, and some of the older parcels of Cabernet Franc are 100 years old as they were planted in 1920. Cheval Blanc is made with three main soil types- fine textured clay, more coarsely textured with gravel , and large gravel with sand. The best parcel is located in front of the chateau with the deep blue clay soils, where Cabernet Franc vines are planted. The ones from clay soil are powerful with velvety tannin, while the one from gravel soil are more aromatic and elegant. A blend of both enhances the complexity of the wine to its maximum. Each parcel is vinified in its own tank. Malolactic fermentation takes place in the tank and then the wines are aged in 100% new French oak barrels for about 18 months before bottling. The beauty of Cheval Blanc is the complex, powerful perfume paired with texture that embrace the mouth and throat with velvety smoothness. The wine is opulent, flamboyant, and incredibly rich, but never heavy.