Le Petit Cheval 2020

The minerality and precision of a Bordeaux dry white wine

The estate

Located on the right bank of Bordeaux, Château Cheval Blanc is one of the most prestigious references in the Saint-Emilion appellation. This Premier Grand Cru Classé A stands out due to the distinctive style of its wines, which boast an immense class and are poised among the most sought-after wines in the world.

The wine

Produced in the Bordeaux dry white wine appellation, Le Petit Cheval is the fruit of an adventure and a challenge that Château Cheval Blanc embarked on more than 10 years ago: to produce a very great white wine on a terroir that is historically renowned for its red wines. Although the initial idea was to produce a wine exclusively for family and friends, the idea of producing a fine wine very quickly became evident. Le Petit Cheval Blanc is the essence of the Cheval Blanc identity and stems from a plot of land entirely dedicated to its production. This 6.6-hectare vineyard was formerly the Tour du Pin vineyard. Benefiting from its own vinification and ageing facilities, Le Petit Cheval Blanc is made from a mosaic of 13 different plots and the vines are planted on sandy and clay soils.

The vintage

Mild and dry, the first few months of the year favoured a historically early budburst (from March 19th) and rapid flowering. Then, an alternation between humidity and mildness occurred from March to June. Despite a particularly hot and dry summer until August 12th, water stress remained moderate. Overcast weather and cooler temperatures 10 days before the harvest ensured that the grapes ripened gradually and optimally.

Vinification and ageing

A pressing and a light settling precede fermentation in demi-muids (600L), tuns (15hL) and wooden vats (15, 20, 25 and 30 hL). Following the vinification, the daily stirring of the lees is gradually reduced according to the tastings carried out by the team. Following the blending in February, the wines are aged for 18 months before being racked, stabilised, fined, clarified and bottled.

The blend

Sauvignon Blanc (82%)

Sémillon (18%).

Le Petit Cheval 2020: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

The bright and precise nose blends bergamot and citrus fragrances (grapefruit) with fruity notes (pear, white flesh fruits). When aerated, the bouquet exudes its freshness and minerality.

Palate

The attack is lively and refreshing. The full and smooth palate seduces with its salinity, its balance and its persistence.