2015 Cheval Blanc
By Chateau Cheval Blanc
2015 Cheval Blanc from Chateau Cheval Blanc, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
A mere whisper of the year 2015 in Saint-Émilion elicits a knowing nod from those privy to Bordeaux's climatic serendipity that season. It was a masterpiece of meteorology that bestowed upon Chateau Cheval Blanc an opportunity to craft what can be considered a contemporary classic - the 2015 Cheval Blanc. Released to soaring anticipation, it has resolutely lived up to its lofty expectations.
Prudent Viniculture Meets Fortuitous Weather
The growing season of 2015 was characterised by judicious juxtapositions: ample warmth balanced by refreshing night-time coolness, timely rain followed by beneficial drought. This alternation of conditions presented the ideal scenario for coaxing out the quintessence of the fruit from this storied estate.
A Vintage to Remember
The 2015 Cheval Blanc articulates its narrative through a bouquet rich with complexity - dark cherry consorts with blackcurrant, while whispers of mint and subtle smoky undertones transcend ordinary descriptions. On the palate, this grand cru exhibits a tapestry of silk and power; Merlot’s plushness interlaced with Cabernet Franc's structure and aromatic character display a vivacity that hints at longevity one would expect from such a venerable name.
The finish on this wine is enduring and multilayered, resembling the stratification of the finest Saint-Émilion terroir. Its textural granularity is akin to the fine embroidery of a Savile Row garment; each sip revels in meticulous craftsmanship.
Given its profound depth and precision, the 2015 Cheval Blanc emerges not only as one of the standout vintages from Chateau Cheval Blanc but also as a beacon for wine investors searching for an asset that promises both gratification and appreciation over time.
A Confluence of Tannin and Time
For those who seek to traverse the zenith of Bordeaux blending mastery, impart investment portfolios with a touch of regal splendour, and ultimately indulge in sheer enological magnificence, it suffices to say that the 2015 Cheval Blanc epitomises these aspirations. A tapestry woven from vintage blessings and winemaking prowess, this creation from Chateau Cheval Blanc is an articulate statement in the language of fine wines.
Market price (GBP)
£6,090.00
12x75cl
Highest score
100
POP score
304.5
Scores and tasting notes
Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cheval Blanc is still incredibly primary at this very youthful stage. With coaxing, it unfurls to reveal beguiling notions of ripe black cherries, mulberries, licorice, baking spices and smoked meats with touches of incense and potpourri plus wafts of cast iron pan and crushed rocks. Full-bodied, very rich, very firm/taut and with very ripe, fine-grained tannins, it allows a glimpse at its incredible depth of flavors with a very long multi-layered finish. Wow.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 31 August 2018
For the first time since 1988, there was no second wine (Petit Cheval) at Cheval Blanc, such was the team’s confidence in the quality of nearly all of the 45 parcels. It sounds like hubris, but this is very special indeed. Complex, scented and nuanced, with a cool elegance that was difficult to achieve in 2015. The tannins are silky, caressing the palate, while the finish lingers like the last note of a great string quartet. Drink: 2025-40
Tim Atkin - timatkin.com
The 2015 Cheval Blanc represents the entire vineyard this year, since there is no Le Petit Cheval (two plots that did not meet requirements were not included in any blend). A blend of 45% Cabernet Franc/Cabernet Sauvignon and 55% Merlot, matured in 100% new oak, it has a very complex bouquet, subtle and tightly wound, very precise with dark berry fruit, hints of graphite, minerals and a hint of black pepper, perhaps a little spicier than recent vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with extraordinarily fine tannin. Beautifully balanced, perfectly controlled, this Cheval Blanc gently builds in the mouth, but remains strict and precise. The Cabernet Franc here is very expressive (though apparently the Merlot was showier prior to malolactic). This is an intellectual Cheval Blanc, thoroughly enjoyable, but it will need 10-12 years to really show its pedigree. A profound wine in the making, it will rank with the great wines of the past.
Neal Martin - eRobertParker.com, #224, April 2016
A Cheval with a depth and finesse that reminds me of the 1998. Full body, ultra-fine tannins and amazing length and beauty. Such finesse and harmony. Super silky and classic for Cheval Blanc.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com
55% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Franc. 34 days of picking, 3 September - 6 October! Historic long vintage. No Petit Cheval, so 90% of the crop went into this wine. Very sweet almost balsam nose. Very distinctive! Really fine with lovely tannins. Lots of ripe fruit and masses of tannin as well as ripeness. The alcohol is only just moderate enough. Very dramatic without being at all exaggerated. Some red pepper powder notes.
Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com