Le Petit Cheval Rouge, St. Emillion 2012 (1x75cl)

The second wine of Chateau Cheval Blanc in Saint-Emilion, on the right bank of Bordeaux, now with over ten years in bottle. Second wines are made in the same cellar as the main label but usually in a lighter, earlier-drinking style, so you get a sense of the house without waiting another decade.

Ten years plus of age means the edges have rounded off and it drinks well now. Good for a dinner where the label matters, or as a client gift. Decant for around forty-five minutes and serve slightly below room temperature.

Tasting notes

Right bank Bordeaux at this age typically shows plum and black cherry moving towards dried fruit, with tobacco, cocoa and a soft, rounded texture as the tannin settles. Usually savoury alongside the fruit rather than sweet.