Le Petit Cheval

Petit Cheval is produced from the same terroir and varietals as its big brother and is positioned as a different wine from the Château. First produced in 1988, Petit Cheval belongs to the exclusive circle of ‘second wines’ within the prestigious ‘Club of Nine’. Its unanimously recognised quality has brought this wine exponential notoriety and endowed it with the status of a great wine in its own right.

Winemaker notes

A pretty ruby colour. A fresh and elegant nose revealing roasted aromas of coffee and toasted bread with oaky notes. Extremely pure with a lovely balance on the finish.

2021

Wine Advocate 91: As readers may remember, this cuvée simply represents everything that doesn't synergize with Cheval Blanc's blend, so the 2021 Le Petit Cheval is composed of some 60% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, amounting to fully half the surface planted to Cabernet Sauvignon at Cheval Blanc. Offering up aromas of dark berries, mulberries and mint framed by creamy new oak, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and polished, concluding with a long, delicately vanillin-inflected finish. Its composition means that it will reward a bit of patience.

James Suckling 94: This is an unusually cabernet-based Petit Cheval with blackcurrant and mineral character and hints of seashell. Medium-bodied, with punchy tannins but a polished and beautiful texture. Tight at the end. Impressive and structured. It’s very St. Julien for this second wine. 60% merlot, 33% cabernet sauvignon and 7% cabernet franc. Best after 2027.

Vinous 94: The 2021 Le Petit Cheval is every bit as impressive as it was from barrel. Soft, silky and exceptionally balanced, the 2021 is all class. Dark cherry, plum, new leather, licorice, smoke and grilled herbs abound. The blend is 60% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Cabernet Franc, with the Cabernet Sauvignon quite evident. That makes the 2021 a pretty unique wine, especially in its tannin profile. The spent 18 months in once-used barrels.