Château Cheval-Blanc

Château Cheval Blanc’s prestigious reputation is on a par with fellow St-Emilion Grand Cru Classé (A), Château Ausone. While the latter is located to the south of the appellation, Cheval Blanc sits in the north, adjacent to the border with Pomerol and its style reflects that influence. Cheval Blanc’s success began through the addition of various parcels of vines from the Figeac estate, and by 1841 had amassed 40 hectares of prime St-Emilion vineyards - the size it remains today. It was owner Jean Laussac-Fourcaud who introduced an efficient drainage system into the vineyards in 1860, understanding that stressed vines produce superlative wines, and replanted part of the estate with significantly more Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It won its first medal in the 1862 Universal Exhibition in London - an accolade still present on its label today - and continues to impress each vintage. The estate introduced a white wine in 2015, made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc.