The expansion of the Saint-Emilion vineyards continued through the centuries, especially during the Middle Ages. The creation and development of the port of Libourne in the 12th century, during the English occupation, led to thriving maritim trade that spread the reputation of Saint-Emilion wines throughout Europe.
They were already considered of superlative quality at the time, with unusual ageing potential, and were often given as special gifts to royalty and other important people. Skilled and enthusiastic winegrowers have long contributed to its stellar reputation. The appellation surrounds the eponymous medieval town on a limestone plateau situated east of Libourne, where the Isle and Dordogne rivers meet.
However, Cheval Blanc is also different — and unique — in that the proportion of gravel and clay is just about equal. Archives show that vines have been grown at Cheval Blanc at least as far back as the 15th century. Two winegrowers were living full-time at Cheval Blanc on the eve of the French Revolution.
This was very unusual at the time, and reflects how highly the terroir was regarded. Jean Laussac-Fourcaud focused on one goal for over thirty years: to make his wine one of the very best in Saint-Emilion and to enhance its reputation. Only 15 to 35 of them will be selected to make the grand vin, and for this there is only one criterion: excellence. This vintage, the finesse, length and balance of which are exceptional, will then be left to age for a year in the barrel house.
A reinterpretation of the Cheval Blanc legend. This identity is now defined by a strict ecological approach. Designed by the architect Christian de Portzamparc, the winery under the hill is the first to be certified HQE in France. Separate the addresses with a comma. Drink responsibly. Chandon India. Pure silk," and, "This is racy and very beautiful. Le Petit Cheval receives respectable ratings, as well.
Since these powerful wines are built to age, you will find decades old vintages in cellars waiting for the perfect occasion. The wine is breathtakingly expensive. Look in high-end wine shops in upscale neighborhoods. If you'd rather shop from the comfort of your own home, use a tool such as Wine Searcher to winnow out a specific vintage.
The tool will present you with the ability to search by vintage, and you just may discover wine auctions featuring rare old bottles. You can also check wine auction houses such as Wine Commune or Sotheby's Wine. If you do decide to purchase an older bottle at auction, do your homework to find out how long the wine could age and to ascertain to the best of your ability the seller has stored the wine under careful conditions.
May wine shops, such as the Wine Exchange , allow you to produce wine futures before the bottles themselves are released. You usually need to do this in quantities of three, six, or more, but it is a great way to reserve wine before the winery releases it.
Le Petit Cheval may be easier to come by.
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