Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Roasted Pork, Wild Game Hens, Lamb Gyros, Crispy Skin Trout with Pork Belly, Pâté.

Bud break were early for Merlot (20th of March) and average for Cabernet Franc (2nd of April). The high temperatures in April accelerated vine growth and brought about early flowering: the 21st of May for both Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Véraison (colour change) was also early, occurring on the 22nd of July for Merlot and the 31st of July for Cabernet Franc. The harvest began on the 19th of September and finished on the 6th of October (18 days). The weather in 2007 called for careful attention in the vineyard at all times, as well as green pruning. Mildew was kept under control and despite the major risk of grey rot in late August, fine September weather, with cool nights, stopped the fungus from spreading. That made it possible to wait for the grapes to ripen fully.

Maceration varied from 15-26 days. The blend contained 6% of press wine, and 1.5% of the wine was bled off from fermentation vats. Ageing took place in 100% new oak barrels for 16-17 months. Traditional fining with egg white was done in order to settle particles in suspension in barrel. Two egg whites were used per barrel. These were later eliminated by filtration.

The present-day Cheval Blanc vineyards had vines at least as far back as the 18th century as shown by Belleyme's map of the region dated 1764. Nearly a century later the estate was acquired by the Fourcaud-Laussac family who owned it until 1998 when it was sold to Mr Bernard Arnault and Baron Albert Frère. The vineyard is in a single block and borders on the Pomerol appellation. An outstanding terror and unusual proportions of Cabernet Franc and Merlot give this great wine an absolutely unique flavor. Chateau Cheval Blanc has had a greater number of outstanding vintages than any other classified great growth over the past century. Another unusual characteristic of Cheval Blanc is that once it reaches its peak it maintains it for a very long time. This admirable wine is powerful soft rich round and silky. It has tremendous fruit and elegance as well as exceptional quality from year to year.