2013 Le Petit Cheval Rouge

The 2013 Le Petit Cheval Blanc is a vintage that will not be commercialized. Like the 2014, it has an attractive bouquet, hints of beeswax infusing the citrus fruit, though not as mineral-laden as the 2014. The palate is nicely balanced, pleasant with slightly lower acidity than the 2013 and as such, it does not quite deliver the energy and the length that the Cheval Blanc team were looking for. As a work in progress, it's not bad, though it's not a patch on the 2014.

The 2013 Le Petit Cheval, actually a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc (yes I know, different to the primeur blends quoted!), has a light red berry, strawberry and briary-scented bouquet that is brisk and fresh. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, light but balanced with a chalky finish. Drink now and over the next 4-5 years. Just 16,000 bottles were produced.

The 2013 Petit Cheval is supple and easygoing. A wine with plenty of near and medium-term potential, the 2013 graces the palate with dark red cherry, plum, smoke and spices. Overall, the 2013 is a pretty, nicely textured wine, but there are elements of slight forwardness and evolution in the flavors that suggest the wine is best enjoyed upon release. The blend is 79% Merlot and 21% Cabernet Franc.