Le Petit Cheval 2018 (750ML)

93-95 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: ""This year, this is truly a baby Cheval, right in line with the grand vin," commented Technical Director Pierre-Olivier Couet. Ten percent of the total production this year went into this second label of Cheval Blanc. Composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Le Petit Cheval needs a lot of coaxing to encourage subtle nuances of crushed rocks, fallen leaves, potpourri and fertile loam to emerge before giving way to fragrant notes of warm blueberries, black raspberries, kirsch and unsmoked cigars with a touch of Marmite toast. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers layers of fresh, crunchy black fruits and loads of earthy sparks, framed by soft, velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long." 04/19

90 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2018 Le Petit Cheval has a pretty bouquet that demands some coaxing from the glass (indeed, I left the bottle a couple of hours to fully open). Blackberry and bilberry fruit, tobacco and light autumn leaf aromas gently unfold but never slip into fifth gear. The palate is medium-bodied with a leafy, slightly herbaceous entry that I personally like, though others seeking more fruit intensity might find it a little lean. But it is fresh and harmonious, and very classic in style, with residues of tobacco and bell pepper on the aftertaste." 03/21

94 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com: "Beautiful aromas of bark, dried mushroom, berry and tile follow through to a full body with richness of fruit, creamy and ripe tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs two or three years to come around." 01/21

90 Points, James Lawther, Decanter: "52% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Franc. Accounts for 25% of the production. Almost the same blend as the grand vin and very much in little brother mould. Perfumed and floral with a menthol note. Long and linear. Tannins finely woven. Elegant and harmonious." 04/15

93-95 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, www.jebdunnuck.com: "In the running for the top second wine of the vintage, the 2018 Le Petit Cheval checks in as 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc and has incredible quality for a second wine. Floral notes of black cherries, graphite, and smoked earth all emerge from this medium to full-bodied Saint-Émilion that has plenty of classic Cheval Blanc elegance and purity as well as length. It's already seamless and hard to resist, and ideal for drinking over the coming two decades or so." 05/19