The 2005 Cheval Blanc is a Bordeaux Blend from the Saint Emilion sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine, produced by Cheval Blanc, is a quintessential expression of its terroir, showcasing a balanced mix of 51% Merlot and 49% Cabernet Franc. With a 14.0% alcohol content and sealed with a cork, this wine is crafted for longevity and complexity.
Renowned wine critic Robert Parker of *Robert Parker's Wine Advocate* awarded this vintage a perfect score of 100 points, describing it as "quintessentially elegant, beautiful, deep bluish/ruby-colored wine from St.-Emilion, with raspberry, blueberry, and floral notes, impressive density, great precision, freshness and purity." He further praised its "meticulously crafted" nature and recommended that it be enjoyed over the next 20 years.
Similarly, Jeb Dunnuck from *jebdunnuck.com* also gave this wine a perfect score, calling it "an absolute legend of a wine." He highlighted its "incredible cassis and darker currant like fruits," as well as its "smoky, truffly earth, spice, and cedar pencil nuances." Dunnuck emphasized the wine's "substantial tannins" and flawless balance, recommending it be enjoyed over the next 20-30 years.
Neal Martin from *Neal Martin's Wine Journal* was equally enthusiastic, scoring it 98 points and noting its "intense bouquet" and "bravura finish that lacquers the mouth." He praised the wine’s "brilliant precision" and "impressive length and poise," indicating that it will only improve with age.
*Wine Spectator*’s James Suckling also rated the wine highly with a score of 97, describing it as "really gorgeous on the nose with blackberry mineral light vanilla bean and milk chocolate." He appreciated its "ultrafine tannins and a long caressing finish," recommending it for long-term aging.
*Wine Enthusiast* provided another excellent review, scoring it 97 points and admiring its "sweet tannins" and "enticing Cabernet Franc perfumes." The review emphasized the wine's "considerable aging potential," noting its current attractiveness due to its sweet fruit flavors.
The combination of Merlot and Cabernet Franc in this vintage brings out a complex profile of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and floral notes. The tannins are described as "beautifully dense" and "sweet," providing a structured yet caressing finish. This wine is highly recommended for aging, with most reviewers suggesting it will continue to improve for decades.
Overall, the 2005 Cheval Blanc is a highly acclaimed Bordeaux Blend, celebrated for its balance, complexity, and aging potential. It stands as a testament to the exceptional quality that Cheval Blanc consistently delivers.