2016 Château Cheval Blanc Magnum: A Great Year for Saint-Émilion
Château Cheval Blanc is one of Saint-Émilion’s historic names. The estate stands out, in part, for the significant role played by Cabernet Franc alongside Merlot—a combination that contributes to its distinctive aromatic character. This 2016 vintage brings together the château’s story with the unique character of the harvest.
The Story of the Vintage
In Bordeaux, 2016 saw a wet spring, followed by a dry summer and favorable conditions leading up to the harvest. That contrast helped produce wines that combine ripeness and freshness.
At Cheval Blanc, it’s not just about concentration. The balance between fruit, acidity, and tannins gives each vintage its own character. Anyone who tastes several vintages side by side will notice how the weather and the decisions made in the vineyard lead to different expressions of the same terroir.
Aroma and taste
Cheval Blanc’s aromatic profile often features black berries, plums, and floral notes, with hints of cedar, graphite, and herbs. On the palate, the tannins and fresh structure play an important role. The exact intensity and development depend on the vintage and the bottle itself.
The Unique Format
This magnum contains one and a half liters of Cheval Blanc. The larger volume and the ratio of wine to oxygen in the bottle make this an interesting size for enthusiasts of wines that age slowly.
Serving and Pairing
Ideally, serve at around 16–18°C in large wine glasses. Young Bordeaux wines can benefit from a little aeration; with older bottles, it’s best to pour gently. When pairing, consider roasted meats, mushrooms, or a refined dish that allows the wine itself to shine.
Discover more
Compare with 2016 Cheval Blanc OWC6, 2018 Cheval Blanc Magnum and 2015 Cheval Blanc Magnum.
