Le Petit Cheval 2012

Winery Background & History

Château Cheval Blanc, established in the 19th century in the heart of Saint-Émilion, is one of the most prestigious wine estates in Bordeaux. Le Petit Cheval is the second wine of the estate, offering an introduction to the house’s winemaking philosophy. It is produced from grapes that don’t make it into the Grand Vin but still showcases the estate’s signature style, delivering a refined expression of Saint-Émilion terroir.

Producer & Wine Maker

The 2012 Le Petit Cheval was crafted by the team at Château Cheval Blanc, led by their experienced winemaking team. The estate is known for its meticulous vineyard management and precise winemaking techniques, ensuring that even its second wine maintains high standards of quality.

Vineyard

The grapes for Le Petit Cheval come from the same prestigious vineyards as the Grand Vin, located in the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation. These vineyards are a blend of gravel and clay-limestone soils, providing ideal growing conditions for Cabernet Franc and Merlot, the key grape varietals in the blend.

The Wine

Le Petit Cheval 2012 is a blend of 75% Cabernet Franc and 25% Merlot. The wine is known for its balance of freshness, fruit intensity, and structure, making it approachable but with enough complexity to age gracefully.

Vintage

The 2012 vintage in Bordeaux was challenging due to variable weather, but producers with careful vineyard management produced wines with elegance and purity. For Le Petit Cheval, this vintage produced a wine that is both charming and structured, with the capacity for mid-term aging.

ABV %

The alcohol by volume (ABV) for Le Petit Cheval 2012 is 13.5%.

Vinification and Aging Method

The wine undergoes vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel and concrete vats, followed by aging in 50% new French oak barrels for approximately 12-16 months. This careful process allows the wine to develop complexity while maintaining its freshness.

Grapes Varietals

• 75% Cabernet Franc

• 25% Merlot

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby color with vibrant hues.

• Nose: Aromas of blackberries, graphite, and cedar, with hints of violets and leather.

• Palate: Medium-bodied with crisp tannins and fresh acidity, delivering flavors of dark fruit, plum, and spice. The finish is long and elegant, with a distinct mineral touch.

Food and Wine Pairing

Le Petit Cheval 2012 pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted lamb

• Beef tenderloin

• Mature cheeses

• Mushroom-based dishes

Service Methods

Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F) and consider decanting for an hour to allow the wine to fully open up.

Storage and Ageing Potential

This wine can be enjoyed now, but with proper storage, it will continue to develop and evolve over the next 5-10 years.

Scores

• Robert Parker: 86-88 points

• Wine Enthusiast: 90 points

• Tastingbook: 93 points

Summary

Le Petit Cheval 2012 is a refined, structured second wine from Château Cheval Blanc that reflects the estate’s attention to detail. It offers a charming expression of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, with a balance of fruit and elegance, making it ideal for both immediate enjoyment and mid-term aging  .