2013 Cheval Blanc from Chateau Cheval Blanc, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

The 2013 vintage in Bordeaux was not without its challenges; a late flowering, damp summer, and hailstorms set the scene for a year that demanded the utmost skill and precision from the region's vintners. Nevertheless, Chateau Cheval Blanc rose admirably to the occasion, crafting a 2013 Cheval Blanc that showcases both resilience and elegance.

Harmonious Balance: A Testament to Tenacity

Despite the testing conditions, the 2013 Cheval Blanc from Chateau Cheval Blanc emerges as a testament to the painstaking care taken in the vineyard and the adept adaptation in the cellar. This vintage emanates a layered complexity, a multifaceted expression of Cabernet Franc blended masterfully with Merlot. It speaks to the triumph of unstinting attention to detail against climatic adversity.

Climatic Influence on Character

The cooler conditions of 2013 translated into an uncustomary restraint for this typically opulent wine; a paradoxical mix of concentration and finesse is evidenced in its structure. The gently bracing acidity interlaces with supple tannins to fashion a frame around the core of dark berries, nuanced by whiffs of fresh herb and forest floor that resonate a unique identity of place and time.

Fruit harvesting at Chateau Cheval Blanc was taken to the eleventh hour, ensuring optimal ripeness; this meticulous timing is mirrored in the 2013 Cheval Blanc’s poised fruit profile. Investors with an appreciation for vintages born out of challenge might well find their diligence rewarded by this particular Saint-Émilion, as it hints at promising development over time.

In sum, for enthusiasts keen on adding a Bordeaux that speaks of resilience and subtlety to their portfolios, the 2013 Cheval Blanc from Chateau Cheval Blanc offers just that. Its intriguing juxtaposition of poise against adversity encapsulates an exceptional narrative worthy of investment consideration.