Chateau Cheval Blanc   Le Petit Cheval

1998 Le Petit Cheval

By Chateau Cheval Blanc

1998 Le Petit Cheval from Château Cheval Blanc, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

In the chic world of fine Bordeaux, a vintage such as the 1998 Le Petit Cheval from Château Cheval Blanc captivates with its unique narrative. The year 1998 was notably kind to Merlot which plays a lead role in this charming second wine from one of Saint-Émilion's most illustrious producers. Investment connoisseurs who specialize in the exclusive wines of Bordeaux will appreciate the nuanced evolution of this particular offering.

 

Rarity and grace: A vintage to behold

An exquisite representation from an exceptional year, the 1998 Le Petit Cheval exudes a tale of the vintage that was graced by optimal climatic conditions for Merlot, creating a generous plumpness and rich texture that only sainted vintages provide. To taste it is to experience a page from the annals of Château Cheval Blanc’s storied history, whose extraordinary terroir blessed this wine with both power and finesse.

Sipping the 1998 vintage evokes an elegant tapestry woven with ripe plums and black cherries laced with earthy truffles—a sophistication borne of time and the estate's unwavering dedication to excellence. Its harmonious balance between mature fruit expressions and resolved tannins results in a softly silken mouthfeel, akin to a mellifluous symphony caressing the senses.

 

Bordeaux's investment-worthy craftsmanship

While younger vintages clamour for attention, the quiet allure of the 1998 Le Petit Cheval commands respect among discerning collectors and investors. It is a staple in portfolios targeted towards wines that show both stability and escalation potential in the global fine wine market space.

The brilliance of this particular vintage lies within its poised maturity, now unfurling layers of complexity that merit attention within one’s curated collection. In a world where immediate pleasure often triumphs, there is profound elegance in patience—of which the 1998 Le Petit Cheval is a paragon expression.

In summation, the 1998 Le Petit Cheval from Château Cheval Blanc stands out as a distinct gem—one that brightly marks its era with consummate Bordelais craftsmanship and attentive cultivation. It remains a poised candidate for sophisticated palates seeking depth and investment circles curating stocks reflective of distinguished pedigree.

Market price (GBP)

£1,590.00

12x75cl

Highest score

91

POP score

144.55

Scores and tasting notes

90-92

A fantastic second label. A rich black cherry nose. A lot of finesse on the palate. Firm tannins. Good extraction - this is better than most First labels. Great value. Tasted January 2001.

Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal

89

Deep garnet-brick in color, the 1998 Le Petit Cheval opens with leather, spice box, earth, prunes and figs on the nose with a hint of crushed rocks. Medium-bodied, refreshing and with a good amount of spicy fruit, it has soft, powdery tannins and an orange peel-tinged finish. Drink now.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 31 May 2018

Vintage performance