Chateau Cheval Blanc   Cheval Blanc

2002 Cheval Blanc

By Chateau Cheval Blanc

The 2002 Cheval Blanc from Chateau Cheval Blanc, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux

In the kaleidoscope of venerable Bordeaux vintages, the 2002 Cheval Blanc from Château Cheval Blanc casts its own mesmerising hues. Cast against the backdrop of a challenging season in Saint-Emilion, this vintage rises with a poised grandeur that captures the essence of resilience and meticulous vineyard stewardship. Recent tastings have emphatically underscored its standing as one of the illustrious estate’s more intriguing offerings – a fine wine investment par excellence.

 

A Chronicle of Terroir and Triumph

With the relentless climatic pressures of 2002, Saint-Emilion's vintners laboured under skies that offered limited reprieve. Yet within the gates of Château Cheval Blanc, a narrative of triumph was being scribed in the vineyards. The chateau's legendary focus on precision viticulture ensured that each vine articulated its varietal voice with clarity. In this context, the 2002 Cheval Blanc reveals an articulate expression, born from adversity yet unyielding in elegance.

 

Singular Expression: The 2002 Vintage Charms

On approaching this vintage, one must shed preconceptions – for the 2002 is not hemmed by the shadows of more famed years. It emerges with an aromatic panache, offering dark cherry and nuanced truffle notes, weaving through taut tannins. The palate is an allegory of balance; cassis melds with earthy complexities, hinting at underbrush and graphite – a testament to its ageing potential. This year's almost equal Merlot and Cabernet Franc composition resonate with an aged serenity that can only stem from judicious cellaring.

Discerning collectors recognise in the 2002 Cheval Blanc an opportunity for diversification amidst their portfolios. Its ascent in desirability is tethered not only to its provenance but also to its compelling narrative – a sleeping beauty among giants, awakened.

Graced with continuity through generations and bolstered by LVMH's custodianship since 1998, this vintage stands proudly as one to watch within savvy investment circles. Its maturing profile strikes a balance between power and poise – elements that beckon further exploration for those charmed by the alchemy of time and skill.

 

In Conclusion: Opulence Through Time

As I reflect on recent tastings of the 2002 Cheval Blanc, it communicates with a quiet authority amongst its vintaged peers. Here lies a vintage characterised not by opulent fanfare or immediate gratification but by poised evolution and steady ascendancy in both complexity and value. The unequivocal charm of 2002 resides in its supple tannic structure and layered bouquet – compelling attributes for enthusiasts looking to enrich their cellars with a wine that continues to unfold its story with grace.

Current market price

£5,040.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

420

Scores and tasting notes

92

Tasted blind at Farr's 2002 Bordeaux tasting. The nose takes some coaxing from the glass, but reluctantly reveals blackberry, bilberry, graphite and a touch of smoke. The palate displays a ripe entry, quite peppery which indicates some ripe Cabernet Franc, good concentration, quite tarry towards the finish with a hint of iodine on the aftertaste. I have forgotten how pleasurable this Cheval Blanc is, but it needs 2-3 years. Tasted October 2009.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2010

90

Smoky, earthy, sweet red and black currant, fig, and menthol notes jump from the glass of this dark ruby/plum-hued, medium-weight Cheval Blanc. Possessing sweet tannin, medium body, and undeniable elegance as well as nobility, this beautifully made effort appears slightly superior (at least to my taste) to the more hyped 2003. Interestingly, yields were 27 hectoliters per hectare in 2002, and 30-31 hectoliters per hectare in 2003. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 April 2005

Vintage performance