2023 Le Petit Cheval, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 1x750ml

Robert Parker 89-91

There are only 15,000 bottles of the 2023 Le Petit Cheval, a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc that didn’t have quite the plenitude of the grand vin. Offering up an attractive bouquet of minty berries, cherries, plums and petals, it’s medium-bodied, pillowy and vibrant, with polished tannins and a bright core of fruit. I suspect that a bit of patience will be rewarded by more fat and texture. [William Kelley, 04/26/2024]

Vinous 91-93

The 2023 Le Petit Cheval, which sees no new oak, offers blackberry and raspberry fruit on the nose, with hints of fireside hearth and light Earl Grey aromas, all finely delineated. The palate is medium-bodied with expressive Cabernet Franc that imparts subtle bell pepper notes in the background. Cohesive, silky-smooth and moderate in length, this is an attractive Le Petit Cheval that will give a decade’s drinking pleasure. [Neal Martin, 04/29/2024]

Anticipated maturity: 2026-2038