Château Cheval Blanc 2006

The complexity and freshness of a Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classé

The producer

Known throughout the world, Château Cheval Blanc, a 1er Grand Cru Classé A, is one of the legendary properties located on the right bank of the Bordeaux wine region.

The vineyard

Château Cheval Blanc benefits from a unique and rare terroir and is uniquely positioned on the Saint-Emilion plateau. While the Saint-Emilion appellation is known for its limestone formations, Château Cheval Blanc is located on soil featuring alluvia from the Quaternary Period deposited by the Isle, a non-calcareous formation with a varied texture, combining almost equal proportions of gravel and clay soils. This peculiarity in the soil means that this property benefits from soils similar to those of the finest Pomerol wines.

The vintage

This vintage experienced many noticeable contrasts in climate. A harsh winter preceded a very mild spring which started from the month of April. While the cool weather in August favoured the crop development, September was marked by a period of very hot weather followed by the arrival of rainfall, saving the vineyard. The harvest took place from the 15th to the 28th of September. Despite these difficult conditions and low yields, extensively monitored vineyard and rigorously sorted vines and cellar lead to the production of an exceptional, intense and fruity vintage.

The blend

Merlot (54%)
Cabernet Franc (45%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (1%).

Château Cheval Blanc 2006: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
The colour is an intense crushed blackberry colour.

Nose
Complex and powerful, the nose combines fruity (blackcurrant, raspberry, cherry) and floral (violet, rose petals) fragrances with light hints of tobacco.

Palate
A rich and ample attack gives way to a generous palate combining both bright fruit with fine and harmonious tannins until reaching a persistent and very delicate finish.