2020 Château Cheval Blanc OWC6: A Harvest During the Pandemic
Château Cheval Blanc is one of Saint-Émilion’s historic names. At the estate, Cabernet Franc plays an important role alongside Merlot. The combination of these two grape varieties and the diversity of the soils help shape the château’s distinctive style. This 2020 vintage tells the story of one specific harvest.
The Story of the Vintage
2020 was the year in which the COVID-19 pandemic changed daily life around the world. Meanwhile, work continued in the Bordeaux vineyards. A warm growing season, periods of drought, and an early harvest also gave this year a unique character from a viticultural perspective. Thus, this bottle tells two stories: that of a momentous year for the world and that of the grapes harvested in Saint-Émilion at that time.
Not every harvest year calls for the same approach. The work in the vineyard, the timing of the harvest, and the selection process all play a role in determining how the grapes’ character ultimately comes through in the wine. At Cheval Blanc, the focus is on the balance between fruit, freshness, and tannins—not just power.
Aroma and taste
Cheval Blanc 2020 displays a rich profile of dark berries, plums, and floral notes. Graphite and subtle herbal notes complement the fruit. Ripe tannins give the wine a firm yet refined structure. The exact way it develops in the glass also depends on the conditions under which the bottle was stored.
The Unique Format
The original wooden case contains six 75-cl bottles. It is a classic way to store a vintage or share it on different occasions; the case itself says nothing about the quality of the storage.
Serving and Pairing
Serve at around 16–18°C in a large wine glass. Young Bordeaux can benefit from a little aeration. Dishes featuring roasted meats, mushrooms, or mild herbs allow the wine to shine. Take your time to discover how the aromas unfold in the glass.
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Compare with other Cheval Blanc vintages:
