1975 Chateau Cheval Blanc

Temperatures were close to normal, except for July and August, which were rather warm. May, June, July and August were dry and September quite rainy. Ripening took place at an average date. Many of the Merlot grapes had been affected by coulure, which accounts for the low yields. 1975 came after a series of difficult vintages, including the heavy rains during the 1974 harvest. Having been put off by these challenges, many estates picked too early in 1975, which led to austere wines that did not develop well in bottle. However, Cheval Blanc’s early-maturing microclimate, and the decision to wait for the Cabernet Franc grapes to ripen fully, resulted one of the most beautiful wines produced in Bordeaux that year.

The wine has a beautiful, deep colour that is still fairly dark despite a few signs of age. The bouquet features expressive, complex aromas of Virginia tobacco, candied fruit, dried banana, and candied orange that blend elegantly with roasted and coffee notes. The wine starts out round and velvety on the palate, going on to show plenty of richness and body. It is very tannic, but not at all dry. 1975 Cheval Blanc is fruity and still very fresh. Intensely spicy and concentrated, it is rich, powerful, and aromatic, with hints of cinnamon and gingerbread, as well as chocolate and truffle. A long, rich aftertaste (featuring overtones of coriander that one finds in certain great vintages of Cheval Blanc) completes this highly exceptional wine. 1975 Cheval Blanc is a great success, combining finesse and sumptuousness. Although somewhat firm, it still provides enormous pleasure at age 40. 30th September 2014