2021 Le Petit Cheval, St Emilion, Bordeaux

Merlot 60%, Cabernet Sauvignon 33%, Cabernet Franc 7%

Petit Cheval represents only 18% of the production in 2021, but all the components have grand-vin potential. That is especially true of this year’s Cabernet Sauvignon, which was elbowed out of the grand vin by the excellence of the Cabernet Franc. The record-high Cabernet Sauvignon drives this wine in a specific direction: graphite to the fore, the floral elements more hidden. The tannins are especially fine-grained and sophisticated. Though not as heady and ethereal as the grand vin, there is a beautiful balance and sheen to the fruit and the finish here. Drink 2025-2035.

Our score: 16/20

Berry Bros. & Rudd (April 2022)