Château Cheval Blanc, Premier Grand Cru Classé A, stands among the most celebrated estates of Saint-Émilion. Known for its distinctive Cabernet Franc–driven style, complex gravel-over-clay soils, and meticulous parcel-by-parcel vinification, Cheval Blanc consistently crafts wines of perfume, finesse, and remarkable longevity. The 1998 vintage is widely regarded as one of the estate’s finest modern achievements.
Vineyard
Cheval Blanc’s vineyards sit on a rare mosaic of gravel, clay, and sand — a terroir that gives Cabernet Franc exceptional aromatic lift and structural precision, while Merlot contributes depth and velvety richness. Old vines and selective harvesting ensure purity and complexity in every component of the grand vin.
Vintage
1998 is considered a legendary Right Bank vintage. Warm, dry conditions and a perfectly timed harvest produced Merlot and Cabernet Franc of exceptional concentration, ripeness, and tannic balance. While Left Bank estates were more variable, Saint-Émilion and Pomerol excelled — and Cheval Blanc delivered one of the most profound wines of the year.
Tasting Notes
The 1998 Château Cheval Blanc opens with an extraordinary bouquet of blackberry, redcurrant, plum, violets, mint, cedar, and exotic spice. The palate is medium-full bodied, silky, and deeply layered, offering ripe black and red fruit wrapped in ultra-fine tannins. Notes of cocoa, graphite, herbs, and floral perfume unfold with air. The finish is long, seamless, and exquisitely balanced — a wine of precision, purity, and quiet power. Still youthful and evolving beautifully.
Critics’ Acclaim
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Considered one of the greatest Cheval Blancs of the late 20th century
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Praised for purity, finesse, aromatic complexity, and structural precision
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A benchmark example of a top Right Bank vintage
Technical Information
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Region: Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
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Classification: Premier Grand Cru Classé A
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Blend: Merlot & Cabernet Franc (Cabernet Franc–dominant profile)
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Alcohol: ~13%
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Drinking Window: Now–2050+
A Collectible Gem
The 1998 Château Cheval Blanc is a monumental Right Bank classic — perfumed, structured, and endlessly refined. A must-own vintage for collectors seeking one of the defining Cheval Blancs of the modern era.
