The 2012 Cheval Blanc from Bordeaux, France is a truly exceptional wine that showcases the best of the region. With its deep red color and elegant label, it is a wine that demands attention from the moment it is poured into the glass.
On the nose, this wine is incredibly complex, offering a range of aromas that weave together seamlessly. There are notes of red and black currant, cherry, raspberry, and blackberry fruit, all wrapped in a layer of loamy earthiness. As the wine opens up, hints of tobacco, black tea, and incense emerge, adding to its allure.
The palate of the 2012 Cheval Blanc is equally impressive. It is medium-bodied with a velvety, creamy mouthfeel that caresses the senses. The fruit and terroir shine through, creating a wine that is simultaneously broad, deep, and defined in style. The red fruit profile is complemented by rocky aromas, a touch of marmalade, and quince. The silky texture is balanced by a citric acid edge that adds freshness and tension to the finish.
This wine has received high praise from esteemed wine critics. Wine Spectator awarded it a score of 95, describing it as "gorgeous in all facets" and noting its seamless layers of fruit and long, tobacco-fueled finish. It is recommended to be enjoyed from 2018 through 2030. Neal Martin's Wine Journal gave it a score of 97, highlighting its dense, broody nose, medium-bodied palate, and harmonious, silky texture.
Overall, the 2012 Cheval Blanc is a wine of exceptional quality and character. It is a blend of 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc, sourced from 35 different parcels in the Saint Emilion sub-region of Bordeaux. This wine is a true testament to the craftsmanship of Cheval Blanc, and it is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.