2013 Le Petit Cheval, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 6x75cl

Antonio Galloni 87-89

The 2013 Petit Cheval is supple and easygoing. A wine with plenty of near and medium-term potential, the 2013 graces the palate with dark red cherry, plum, smoke and spices. Overall, the 2013 is a pretty, nicely textured wine, but there are elements of slight forwardness and evolution in the flavors that suggest the wine is best enjoyed upon release. The blend is 79% Merlot and 21% Cabernet Franc. [Antonio Galloni, 04/01/2014]

Vinous 86-89

(75% merlot and 25 cabernet franc): Vivid ruby-red. Complex, scented nose is very cabernet franc-dominated, offering delicately spicy blackcurrant, truffle, mint and leafy aromas. Juicy, silky and sweet, with highly nuanced flavors of aromatic herbs and flowers. Not especially dense but wonderfully expressive today, finishing with a firm but polished tannic spine. Pierre Lurton told me that this estate went after only their really ripe cabernet franc and therefore had no issues with dilution. One of the best second wines of the year, this is more successful than many grands vins in 2013. Very well done. [Ian D’Agata, 05/01/2014]

Wine Advocate 85

The 2013 Le Petit Cheval, actually a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc (yes I know, different to the primeur blends quoted!), has a light red berry, strawberry and briary-scented bouquet that is brisk and fresh. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, light but balanced with a chalky finish. Drink now and over the next 4-5 years. Just 16,000 bottles were produced. [Neal Martin, 28/09/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2020

JancisRobinson.com 16

Tasted blind. Colour looks rather developed. Quite woody on the nose. Dusty, dry but better harmony on the palate than I expected from the aroma. (JH) [27/01/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2017-2025