Chateau Cheval Blanc Le Petit Cheval (Futures Pre-sale) 2009

"This has a little more Cabernet Franc than usual. Intense aromas of dried flowers, spices and blueberries. Full-bodied, juicy and fruity, with a beautiful softness and polish. Goes on for minutes. Best Petit Cheval. The second wine of Cheval Blanc. Best after 2018. "

94 Points

James Suckling

"The 2009 Le Petit Cheval is the best second wine I have ever tasted from this estate. Composed of two-thirds Merlot and one-third Cabernet Franc, it is better than most vintages of the grand vin from the sixties and seventies. Notes of chocolate, black cherries, herbs, and spice emerge from this full-bodied, thick, juicy wine. Enjoy it over the next 10+ years.
Barrel Sample: 91-93 Points "

93 Points

The Wine Advocate

"This has density and heft, but stays pure and almost accessible now, thanks to its lovely, rounded feel, which allows the plum, fig, steeped black currant, melted licorice snap and loam notes to hang gracefully through the finish, with well-buried acidity. Best from 2013 through 2023. 1,665 cases made."

92 Points

Wine Spectator

"(65% cabernet franc and 35% merlot; pH 3.87; 14.3% alcohol) Deep ruby. Vinous nose offers precise and surprisingly deep aromas of blackcurrant and strawberry. Enters light and smooth, with nicely concentrated flavors similar to the aromas. The extremely silky tannins are not at all those of a second wine, and this Petit Cheval displays much greater than usual texture and depth of flavor as well. Finishes with lively acidity and a lingering blackberry quality. A tasty, well-made, nicely balanced midweight wine that should offer immediate drinking pleasure, this is one of my three best "second wines" of the vintage.
Barrel Sample: 89-92 Points "

92 Points

International Wine Cellar

"Density with an important structure, this wine is concentrated, with fresh plum flavors. There is a slight edge of greenness, bringing out acidity.
Barrel Sample: 88-90 Points"

90 Points

Wine Enthusiast