The 2014 Cheval Blanc is a remarkable Bordeaux Blend that exemplifies the elegance and complexity of wines from the Saint Emilion region in Bordeaux, France. This wine showcases a deep red color, enticing the eye with its radiant hues and inviting allure.
Upon first approach, the aromas of damson-plum and plum-cake entice the senses, offering a rich and captivating bouquet. As the wine unfolds on the palate, a substantial amount of fine tannin emerges, creating an impressively plush texture. The wine lingers on the tongue, leaving a velvety smoothness that tempts one to reach for the glass once again.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this vintage a score of 94, praising its opulent richness and supple finish. Suckling's review encourages both immediate enjoyment or the option to cellar the wine for further aging.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also highly commends the 2014 Cheval Blanc, awarding it a score of 95. The wine presents a youthful vibrancy and exudes red and black cherry notes, accompanied by hints of oolong tea, wilted roses, and dusty soil. Medium-bodied with firm, chewy tannins, this wine possesses plenty of freshness to support its lively fruit flavors.
Wine Spectator, in their review, bestowed a remarkable score of 97 upon this wine, describing it as having dreamy aromas with notes of Lapsang souchong tea, smoldering cigar, and cold charcoal. The dense yet supple core reveals layers of currant, fig, and blackberry preserves. The finish is characterized by a thumping, loamy edge that entices and captivates the palate.
With its high proportion of Cabernet Franc (45%), the 2014 Cheval Blanc, as praised by Wine Enthusiast, is a finely perfumed wine with great tannins and a smoky character imparted by the wood. Generous fruitiness is balanced by a tight, firm edge, creating a complex and impressive wine that has the potential to age gracefully for many years.
Jeff Leve, from TheWineCellarInsider.com, notes the presence of truffle, herbs, mint, and tobacco in the aromas of this wine. On the palate, the wine reveals silky fruits and sweet red berries that linger and evolve. The interplay between red fruits and spice adds depth and freshness, making this wine enjoyable in its youth or suitable for aging to enhance its complexity.
The 2014 Cheval Blanc is a wine of exceptional quality and finesse. Its harmonious blend of varietals, meticulous craftsmanship, and aging potential make it a prized addition to any cellar.