Chateau Cheval Blanc 1999 Magnum

"A blend of 59% Merlot and 41% Cabernet Franc, the complex, explosively fragrant 1999 Cheval Blanc is already showing well, which is a good sign for a wine that traditionally is reserved early in life, but puts on weight and richness in the bottle. Stylistically, this wine is probably cut from the same mould as vintages such as 1985, 1966, and 1962. The color is a dense ruby with purple nuances. Once past the blockbuster bouquet of menthol, leather, black fruits, licorice, and mocha, the wine reveals medium body, extraordinary elegance, purity, and sweet, harmonious flavors with no hard edges. A seamless beauty of finesses, charm, and concentration, 1999 has produced an exciting Cheval Blanc to drink relatively young." 93/100, Robert Parker, Apr'2002

"Spicy, vegy nose with great, top-quality density and balance. Pretty smart without being too concentrated or sweet. Very fresh and vibrant. Good wine!" 18/20, Jancis Robinson, Sep'2009

"Love the chocolate mousse and berry aromas here. This is opulent, yet reserved, and beautiful. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a delicious finish. Offering so much finesse and beauty, this is a polished and gorgeous Cheval." 91/100 Wine Spectator

From the estate (Apr'2010)
"This was a warm year, but one without any drought periods. Yields were relatively high and there was a great synergy between Merlot and Cabernet Franc that ended up producing an extremely pleasurable wine. The deep intense colour shows bricking in keeping with its age. The nose is concentrated with very ripe black fruit and crème de cassis aromas, as well as hints of chocolate, orange, violet, and liquorice. The oak is well-integrated with empyreumatic nuances of toasted almonds. Perfectly defined tertiary aromas have appeared over time: truffle, forest floor, and fruit in brandy. 1999 Cheval Blanc has remained very fresh. It starts out very flavoursome and velvety on the palate, with plenty of fruit and a hint of cedar. This smooth, silky Cheval Blanc has great length, although without the concentration of great vintages. This vintage has opened up quickly and is already proving to be charming and delicious. It provides a great deal of pleasure and has reached its peak. 1999 Cheval Blanc epitomises the synergy between concentrated, but well-balanced Merlot, and elegant, aromatic Cabernet Franc."