Cheval Blanc 2012

The wine in this vintage

A cold, damp spring, a late summer and a harvest threatened by rain: 2012 was a difficult year, in which Right Bank Merlot, picked before the bad weather, gave the best results. Cheval Blanc made the most of its gravel soils. Cheval Blanc 2012 is surprisingly harmonious, with black cherry, blueberry, violet, spice and a hint of cedar, on a round, fresh palate with fine tannins. Robert Parker and Wine Spectator both rated it 95 points, a notable result for the year. Still evolving, it can be cellared with confidence for several years.

The producer · Château Cheval Blanc

On the north-western edge of Saint-Émilion, just a stone's throw from Pomerol, Château Cheval Blanc has been one of Bordeaux's most celebrated names for over a century and a half. The estate took shape during the nineteenth century and for generations belonged to the Fourcaud-Laussac family, who defined its character and prestige. Since 1998 it has been owned by Bernard Arnault and the family of Baron Albert Frère, with Pierre Lurton at the helm for many years. The vineyard, just under forty hectares in a single block, lies on a mosaic of deep gravel and clay that resembles neighbouring Pomerol more than the rest of Saint-Émilion. Here Cabernet Franc plays a leading role alongside Merlot, an unusual signature on the Right Bank that yields wines of extraordinary aromatic elegance, freshness and longevity. A winery designed by Christian de Portzamparc and a commitment to agroecology reflect a contemporary vision. In 2022 the estate chose to leave the Saint-Émilion classification, secure in a reputation that needs no official rank.

Critics' scores

• 95 Robert Parker
• 95 Wine Spectator
• 94 James Suckling
• 17.5/20 Jancis Robinson

Technical details

Producer

Château Cheval Blanc

Region

Bordeaux

Country

Francia

Type

Rosso

Vintage

2012

When to drink

Not yet at its peak

Critics' average

94.7/100

Sizes

75 cl, Magnum 150 cl, Case of 6 × 75 cl

eWibe code

0150112