Formerly known as vin de Figeac, this wine was first sold under the name Cheval Blanc in 1852. The first gold medal won by Cheval Blanc came at the 1878 Universal Exhibition in Paris and that distinction appears on the label.

Each vineyard plot is vinified separately. At the start of fermentation, the juice is gently pumped over three times daily. As fermentation proceeds, pump-over frequency decreases and is eventually stopped when the desired level of extraction has been reached.

The young wine is aged 16 to 18 months in new French oak barrels. Six to seven different coopers are used to ensure complexity and harmony. During this period, the wine is racked by hand five to seven times. Blending takes place after the first three months.

The 2020 Cheval Blanc from Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, is an impressive Bordeaux blend composed predominantly of Merlot (65%), with Cabernet Franc (30%) and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon (5%). Known for its finesse and elegance, this vintage has garnered high praise from critics, with several describing it as a wine of exceptional balance and potential.

Jane Anson awarded it a perfect score of 100, describing the wine as "intense, indelible, with layer upon layer of blueberry, raspberry, pomegranate," among other complex notes. She highlighted its remarkable character and the significance of it being the driest year at Cheval Blanc since 1959. Jeb Dunnuck, another admirer who rated it 100, emphasized the wine's "finesse and elegance," noting its "kaleidoscopic bouquet" and "flawless" palate.

Vinous reviewer Antonio Galloni found the wine "eternal, seamless and exceptionally beautiful," awarding it a near-perfect score of 99, and praised its "mind-blowing balance." Jeff Leve also rated it 99, describing the wine's palate as "cashmere textured" with "refined, silky tannins."

Decanter highlighted its "clarity, precision and purity," giving it a score of 98, while James Suckling praised its "structured and muscular" nature, suggesting it is one for the cellar.

Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator both acknowledged the wine's power and density, scoring it 97 and 96 respectively. Wine Advocate highlighted its broad, voluptuous character, noting it would appeal to those who favor powerful expressions of Cheval Blanc.

Overall, the 2020 Cheval Blanc is a rich, complex wine with substantial aging potential. Its combination of ripe fruit flavors, intricate aromas, and balanced structure makes it a standout choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike, promising a rewarding experience for those who choose to cellar it.