2006 Ch. Cheval Blanc, St Emilion

Director Pierre Lurton has one of the best and hardest jobs in Bordeaux, managing two of the region's great estates, Cheval Blanc and d'Yquem. In 2006 he been successful once again producing what he rightly calls 'a cashmere' Cheval Blanc. It is an outstanding wine, with a stylish, velvety texture, power and elegance and a lovely mouthwatering freshness. It has more Merlot than usual giving it a seductive richness, along with concentrated raspberry, blackberry and plum fruit and supple tannins. Just as you think you have tasted everything, another wave of fruit sweeps in on the long finish.

The brilliant 2006 Cheval Blanc performed better from bottle than from barrel. A blend of equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot grown in a superb vineyard site facing La Conseillante and l’Evangile at the very edge of the sandy, gravelly soils of St.-Emilion, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sweet perfume of menthol, charcoal, boysenberries, black currants, and hints of cocoa and caramel. Lush, textured, and opulent with superb purity, medium to full body, savory flavors, and sweet, sexy tannins, this stunning Cheval Blanc may be even better than the 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.
(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Feb-2009)