Château Cheval Blanc 2016 [magnum]

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2016 Cheval Blanc is blended of 59.5% Merlot, 37.2% Cabernet Franc and 3.3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple in color, the nose is incredibly youthful yet not so shy as some other 2016s at this stage, giving wonderfully intense scents of red currants, black cherries, wild blueberries and violets with nuances of star anise, cinnamon stick, rose hip tea, cigar box and wood smoke plus a touch of beef drippings. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has jaw-dropping elegance and depth, offering up layer upon layer of fragrant red and black fruits plus an extraordinary array of mineral sparks, supported by a rock-solid grainy texture, finishing with epic persistence and an edifying perfume. This is a very different style from the rich, opulently hedonic 2015, yet this wonderfully fragrant, beautifully poised and intellectually compelling 2016 is equally extraordinary.

VertdeVin

The nose is elegant and offers a slight power as well as a very fine grain. It reveals notes of juicy blackberry, juicy ripe wild strawberry and small notes of blueberry combined with slight touches of liquorice, incense, flowers (violet, iris), Cuben pepper as well as slight hints of sweet spices. The palate is fruity, elegant, gourmand and offers power, a slight richness, a beautiful definition, freshness, a beautiful suavity as well as a beautiful juiciness. On the palate this wine expresses notes of blackberry, black cherry and small notes of cassis, ripe crushed raspberry associated with touches of licorice, coffee as well as discreet hints of almond, caramelization / sweet spices. Good length and persistence. There are slight hints of cocoa on the finish / persistence. Tannins are fine, precise and a bit firm. Slight chew on the finish (brings gourmandise). The finish is very slightly grainy. Everything is well integrated / in place. There is very slight touch of bitterness / flowers on the persistence. Beautiful potential (2022+).

Andreas Larsson - Tasted

Exotic nose with mint, sage, ripe dark fruit, pure cassis, gravel and black cherry no noticeable oak, rather ripe and intense, yet with plenty of class and elegance. The palate is dense and concentrated yet in a somewhat medium body with just muscles and no fat. incredible purity, texture and length. Very harmonious and complete in a more open and accesible style, yet with the classic elegance.

Falstaff

Wine Enthusiast

Rich, smoky and with powerful fruit, this structured wine also has an impressive perfumed character. Spice, blackberry fruits and rich tannins give wonderful firmness that will allow the wine to age well. Drink this already beautiful wine from 2025