Le Petit Cheval 2019

A Bordeaux dry white wine with a seductive minerality and aromatic richness

The estate

Located on the right bank of Bordeaux, Château Cheval Blanc is one of the most prestigious references in the Saint-Emilion appellation. This Premier Grand Cru Classé A stands out due to the distinctive style of its wines, which boast an immense class and are among the most sought-after wines in the world.

The wine

Produced in the Bordeaux dry white wine appellation, Le Petit Cheval is the fruit of an adventure and a challenge that Château Cheval Blanc embarked on more than 10 years ago: to produce a very great white wine on a terroir that is historically renowned for its red wines. Although the initial idea was to produce a wine exclusively for family and friends, the idea of producing a fine wine very quickly became evident. Le Petit Cheval Blanc is the essence of the Cheval Blanc identity and stems from a plot of land entirely dedicated to its production. This 6.6-hectare vineyard was formerly the Tour du Pin vineyard. Benefiting from its own vinification and ageing facilities, Le Petit Cheval Blanc is made from a mosaic of 13 different plots and comptodrd vines planted on sandy and clay soils.

The vintage

The first three months of the year, as well as the month of May, were relatively mild and drier than normal. April and June were marked by heavy rainfall. Although the summer was dry, July was punctuated by heatwaves alternating with rainy spells, that salvaged the vineyards. The mild and dry conditions at the beginning of September favoured an optimal ripening. Over the whole year, the vegetative cycle was particularly homogeneous. The grapes were harvested in very good conditions and gave rise to floral, fruity and mineral juices.

Vinification and ageing

A pressing and a light settling precede fermentation in demi-muids (600L), tuns (15hL) and wooden vats (15, 20, 25 and 30 hL). Following the vinification, the daily stirring of the lees is gradually reduced, based on the tastings carried out by the team. Following the blending in February, the wines are aged for 18 months before being racked, stabilised, fined, clarified and bottled.

The blend

Sauvignon Blanc (79%)

Semillon (21%).

Le Petit Cheval 2019: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

This clear and limpid wine showcases a brilliant yellow-green colour.

Nose

The nose opens up to discretion and delicacy floral fragrances (acacia, lime blossom). When aerated, the bouquet becomes more complex and offers a rich and intense palette of mineral notes, citrus and white fruit aromas (peach, pear, apricot).

Palate

The attack is seductive with its freshness, precision and structure, all sustained by a beautiful acidity. The ample and generous palate stretches with finesse to a persistent finish highlighting this wine's lithe bitter flavours, the signature feature of this exceptional Bordeaux dry white wine.