2006 Cheval Blanc
By Chateau Cheval Blanc
2006 Cheval Blanc from Chateau Cheval Blanc, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
In the pantheon of French wines, the esteemed offerings by Chateau Cheval Blanc invariably stand as a testament to the profound craftsmanship exhibited in Saint-Émilion's vineyards. My own experience with this chateau spans decades, allowing me a reverence for vintages that illustrate the art of winemaking amidst fluctuating climes. The 2006 Cheval Blanc, in particular, is a vintage worth noting for investors seeking out not only luxury but also longevity in their portfolios.
Unwrapping the 2006 Vintage
The year 2006 in Bordeaux faced myriad challenges due to climatic discord yet what emerged from Chateau Cheval Blanc’s vintner alchemy was nothing short of remarkable. This vintage articulates a story of tenacity where the wine whispers of the rigor it endured before flourishing. It proffers an intriguing combination of robust tannins and an elegant structure that aligns with careful cellar maturation.
A Confluence of Flavour and Potential
Upon degustation, the 2006 Cheval Blanc exercises complexity and depth. It unfolds in intricate layers—dark fruits like cassis and plums interlace with truffles and cigar box underpinning, carrying forth a whisper of violets to usher finesse. The palate is met with a wine whose components coalesce into an opulent yet meticulously sculpted experience, ensuring it remains one of the more formidable players amid Bordeaux wines from this period.
Savvy investors will note that while many wines from this year show immediate charms, it is the enduring character of this Saint-Émilion gem that promises continued evolution and potential appreciation. As I reflect upon my encounters with this resplendent beverage, I can state without reservation that it stands poised to become a venerable highlight within any conscionable collection.
The convergence of rarity, resilience, and richness in the 2006 Cheval Blanc from Chateau Cheval Blanc exemplifies why it behoves one’s attention as both a sensory treasure and a financial stronghold.
Market price (GBP)
£4,410.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
259.41
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London.The 2006 Château Cheval Blanc is a blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc. It has the most floral bouquet of the four Serié A Grand Cru Classé: an explosion of crushed violets and potpourri, hints of leather and cigar box, the Cabernet Franc clearly lending this complexity and character. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. It feels wonderfully structured and comes with an insistent grip that coats the mouth. This is backward and almost surly, but you have to stand back and admire the precision and arching structure on the mineral-rich finish. Top-dog Saint Emilion? That's for sure. Tasted January 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 May 2016
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 Jr - Wine Advocate #181 Feb 2009
Tasted blind at Southwold ’06 Bordeaux tasting. The Cheval is a blend of 54% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. This has a very subtle nose, fine definition, soft red-berried fruit, fruitcake and a touch of truffle/damp earth although at the moment it remains a little introverted. The palate has sharp acidity on the entry, a bit of piquancy here, earthy black fruits, allspice, a touch of cloves, rather sharp and pointed at first but mellowing with time in the glass. Quite linear and to be honest, trumped by other Right Bank superstars, but still a lovely Cheval, if not one firing on all cylinders. Tasted January 2010.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2010