2001 Cheval Blanc, St-Emilion

SKU #1009318 93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

I was surprised by how soft, opulent, even voluptuous the 2001 Cheval Blanc performed out of bottle as this estate’s wines tend to shut down when young. Its deep ruby/purple color was accompanied by sweet aromas of cranberries, black currants, menthol, Asian spices, and underbrush. This seductive blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc reveals a lush sweetness, medium body, and ripe, well-integrated tannin. A racy effort filled with personality, it should be at its finest between 2007-2018. (6/ 2004)

92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

(a blend of 60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc; cropped at 35 hectoliters per hectare; 50% selection for the grand vin): Bright red-ruby. High-pitched, slightly candied aromas of crushed red berries and plum lifted by whiffs of violet and cocoa. Then tightly wound, with juicy minerality and good energy to its spicy, exotic blackcurrant and herbal flavors. Boasts wonderful precision and lingering perfume on the long, taut finish. The 2001 vintage was characterized by a late harvest due to a cooler than average September; the wines are far above average in quality and, given their relatively low cost compared to the much sought-after 2000s and 2005s, represent very intelligent buys for Bordeaux lovers all over the world. (10/ 2011)

92 points Wine Spectator

Dark and intense, with blackberry, plum and light vanilla aromas. Subtle and complex. Full-bodied, with plenty of berry and vanilla character and a long, silky finish. Very racy. Very refined and long. Love the caressing texture. Close to the 2000 in quality. Best after 2008. (3/ 2004)

K&L Notes

65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc. A royal wine that does not show its power right now. Restraint is the key word. Black licorice aromas. Silky flavors with forward tannins. A more classic style like 1983.