Le Petit Cheval

As one of the world's most esteemed wine producers, it is only fitting that Chateau Cheval Blanc release more than one wine. The winemaking team first created Le Petit Cheval Blanc in 1988, the 'baby brother' to the main label. This wine is not to be mistaken as a lesser wine, as Le Petit Cheval has gained increased notoriety and acclaim in recent vintages thanks to its accessible drinking and pricing. 

Le Petit Cheval: Cheval Blanc's Sibling Label

Production for the prestigious second label began in 1988, when the Fourcaud-Lussac family, previous owners of the estate, did not want to waste grapes they believed were worthy of production. Cheval Blanc's meticulous harvesting methods involve using only 1/4th of the grapes harvested, ensuring Le Petit Cheval receives "First Growth" fruit in the final cuvée. The wine is produced from the same terroir as its big brother and does not represent a singular plot on the property.

Once harvested, the grapes undergo parcel-by-parcel vinification, long maceration, and manual pruning. After malolactic fermentation, the wines are aged in 100% new French oak barrels for 16 months. Only 4,000 cases are produced per vintage, and the wines have been described as joining the prestigious 'second labels' of the 'Club of Nine,' the nine best estates from Bordeaux.

Le Petit Cheval Blanc: Notable Vintages

Le Petit Cheval Blanc has been described as more accessible than the main label, offering the perfect introduction to Cheval Blanc. This wine is great for those looking to try the Saint-Emilion giant without breaking the bank. Opening up more quickly than its big brother, yet still offering the classic finesse and elegance, there is a diverse range of excellent vintages to choose from.

Le Petit Cheval 1999

The 1999 Le Petit Cheval Blanc was celebrated as one of the chateau's greatest efforts, with critic Neal Martin stating the wine "was just about as good as the Grand Vin!" The label received 32% of Cheval Blanc's total production and comprised 63% Cabernet Franc and 37% Merlot. When blended and aged, the final cuvée featured firm tannins, red and black fruit notes on the palate, and menthol-tinged aromas. 

Le Petit Cheval 2006

The 2006 Le Petit Cheval Blanc received just 11% of the final harvest and featured an atypical 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc composition, one of the few times the label has been Merlot-driven. The wine was heralded as an intense and concentrated effort, balanced by an elegant floral bouquet.

Le Petit Cheval 2008

The 2008 Le Petit Cheval Blanc displayed the chateau's classic freshness and brightness, with incredibly fine tannins and minerality on the palate. Its overall composition of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot garnered the attention of Robert Parker, who wrote, "The [2008] is the finest second wine yet made at Cheval Blanc."

Acquire a Bottle of Petit Cheval Blanc 

Le Petit Cheval is the perfect introduction to Chateau Cheval Blanc, offering discerning customers an accessible price point into the St. Emilion giant. With fruit harvested from the same plot as the Grand Vin, Le Petit Cheval is an excellent choice for any collector, with approachable drinking in its youth and a storied heritage behind the bottle. Browse our selection of in-stock Petit Cheval Blanc wines and secure your bottle today.