Chateau Cheval Blanc   Le Petit Cheval

2000 Le Petit Cheval

By Chateau Cheval Blanc

2000 Le Petit Cheval from Château Cheval Blanc, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

In the pantheon of distinguished Bordeaux offerings, the 2000 Le Petit Cheval from Château Cheval Blanc radiates with the excellence afforded by one of the most celebrated vintages in recent memory. A satellite to its illustrious sibling, Le Petit Cheval mirrors the depth and finesse of the grand vin while asserting its individuality with aplomb.

 

A vintage apart: Y2K proves its mettle

The millennial vintage of Bordeaux presented a constellation of climatic conditions that were prophetic for the birth of wines steeped in both power and elegance. The 2000 Le Petit Cheval captures this dichotomy beautifully, wielding a mature yet vivid palette that speaks volumes of its pedigree and provence. The judicious blend employed here sings of the region's traditional varietals with Merlot fortifying with plump richness, and Cabernet Franc bestowing intricate layers of aromatic complexity.

With time's gentle touch, this wine offers an experience characterized by rounded tannins and a harmonious balance seldom achieved with such grace. The terroir’s pronounced expression emerges through a persistent finish bringing forward soft earthy undertones complimented by a subtle herbaceous charm.

 

En Primeur for posterity: where collectability meets consummation

The investment appeal of 2000 Le Petit Cheval cannot be overstated, ascending as it has on the echelons of both desirability and rarity. Given its lineage from Château Cheval Blanc, each bottle possesses indubitable authenticity that aligns as much with the connoisseur's palate as it does with the investor’s portfolio.

Ripe for appreciation, both in value and sensory gratification, this vintage represents an enlightened choice for those cultivating a collection vested not simply in prestige but in the guarantees afforded by impeccable provenance and extraordinary vintage conditions.

In closing, as one navigates through the hallowed crus of Bordeaux’s right bank, the 2000 Le Petit Cheval proves an essential beacon; manifesting viticulture that is both intrinsically tied to time-honored practices and vibrantly present in its performance on both table and market trend. A splendid exemplar from an epoch-marking year – your collection beckons it humbly, yet assuredly.

Current market price

£1,710.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

171

Scores and tasting notes

90

A deep garnet hue. The nose is reticent at first, but then a lovely bouquet of blackberry, blueberry and crushed violets emerges and gains intensity with aeration. Fine tannins on the palate, cohesive but still quite backward with a surprisingly firm backbone and an austere finish. Needs more time. Tasted October 2007

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2008

87

The fully mature 2000 Le Petit Cheval reveals some herbal notes interwoven with sweet red currants. Medium-bodied with lots of spice and menthol, the wine tails off in the mouth. It needs to be drunk up.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2010

Vintage performance