2006 Le Petit Cheval
By Chateau Cheval Blanc
2006 Le Petit Cheval from Château Cheval Blanc, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
The 2006 vintage for the esteemed Saint-Émilion enclave brought forth a profound display of winemaking finesse, with the 2006 Le Petit Cheval from Château Cheval Blanc taking a distinctive stance amidst Bordeaux's offerings. With roots entrenched in one of France's most cherished terroirs, this vintage captures the essence of a year that tested both vine and vintner.
A Testament to the Tempest of 2006
In comparison to its stellar predecessors, 2006 was a year marked by weather inconsistencies that posed a challenge to Bordeaux's vineyards. Yet, despite nature's caprice, the vintners at Château Cheval Blanc harnessed these climatic trials ingeniously to produce a Le Petit Cheval blend that brims with equilibrium and charm.
The 2006 Le Petit Cheval delivers a tapestry of ripe berries and earthy undertones. It is an exemplar of how Mother Nature’s hurdles can be transcended through human talent and a profound understanding of the vineyard. Each sip brings forth reflective notes of blackcurrant laced with delicate herbal whispers—a harmonious testament to the unpredictable season.
Ripe for Investment Discourse
An elegant ensemble of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the vintage has matured into a stunning portfolio asset. The deep garnet hue clings to the glass, foretelling the complex structure within—one that embodies a calculated risk not just borne, but artfully mastered.
For investors keen on elevating their cache of fine wines, the 2006 Le Petit Cheval acts as an exemplar of how environment and expertise can coalesce to create a collectible offering resilience and potential growth in value.
In sum, this offering from Château Cheval Blanc captures an intriguing snapshot of an invigorating vinicultural year. The deft blend in 2006 Le Petit Cheval echoes a tale of triumph over adversity; an alluring acquisition for those who invest with both palate and portfolio in mind.
Market price (SGD)
$2,340.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
155.56
Scores and tasting notes
One of the stronger second wines I have tasted from manager/winemaker, Pierre Lurton, the 2006 Le Petit Cheval exhibits a dark ruby hue along with sweet red and black fruit notes intermixed with underbrush, forest floor, and licorice characteristics. This is a seductive second wine that cascades over the palate with no hard edges. Enjoy it over the next 6-7 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #181
Tasted blind at Southwold '06 Bordeaux tasting. The Le Petit Cheval '06 is well defined on the nose: crushed stones, brambly black fruits, boysenberry, truffle and a touch of bay leaf. The palate is medium-bodied, spicy black fruits on the entry, a dash of pepper, chewy tannins with a grippy, smoky finish. Maybe this is too serious for its own good? It needs to lighten up a little! Tasted January 2010.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2010
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London. The 2006 Le Petit Cheval has a fully mature, slight fungal bouquet with touches of wilted rose petal and burnt toast. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, still quite firm in the mouth considering its age, with tobacco-tinged red berry fruit and plenty of spice on the finish. The palate seems to have aged in better fashion than the nose. Drink over the next 4-6 years. Tasted January 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 May 2016