Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Cheval Blanc
Label Name:
 
St Emilion Gcc a
Vintage:
 
2011
Country:
 
France
Region:
 
Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
14%
Grape(s):
 
Cabernet Franc (57%), Merlot (43%)
Method:
 
Parcel vinification (multiple small vats for ~44 parcels); fermentation in temperature-controlled vats; matured c.14–18 months in French oak (majority new), then blended and bottle-aged.
Acidity:
 
3
Tannins:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18
Tasting Note:
 
Pure black-fruit core (blackberry, blackcurrant) with violet, menthol and cedary tobacco notes; loamy earth and bittersweet chocolate. Silky, layered palate with fine powdery tannins and a long mineral-tinged finish.
Food Pairing:
 
Western: roast lamb, braised beef short ribs, duck confit, mushroom risotto, aged comté or pecorino. Asian: Peking duck, char siu, braised beef noodle soup, shiitake hotpot, Korean BBQ (grilled short rib).
Vineyard Info:
 
Historic estate founded in 19th century on mixed gravel-clay soils; owned by the Arnault/Frère interests (LVMH-linked). Renowned for high Cabernet Franc plantings and meticulous parcel management.
Awards/Ratings:
 
Key scores: Wine Advocate (William Kelley) 97 pts (Aug 2022); Jeb Dunnuck 96; Robert Parker (earlier) 95; Wine Spectator 94; James Suckling 94; Wine Enthusiast 92; Jancis Robinson ~19/20