Le Petit Cheval 2009

For some 20 years, the masterful Pierre Lurton has held the reins of Cheval Blanc, property of luxury purveyor LVMH since the late 1990s. Located on the Saint-Émilion plateau alongside the Pomerol appellation, Cheval Blanc lies atop gravelly soil mixed with clay and sand. Le Petit Cheval emerged in 1988 from the same terroir as iconic Cheval Blanc. Its composition varies however, with a tiny bit more Cabernet Franc (65%) rounded out by Merlot. Long barrel maturation imparts notes reminiscent of mocha, roasting, and cigar humidors, which subsequently give way to dark fruit aromas. Le Petit Cheval offers plentiful substance, tight tannins, and an aging potential of 10 or so years.

Proprietors: Bernard Arnault and Baron Albert Frère

Vineyard planting: 60% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot