The 2003 Château Cheval Blanc is a sumptuous, expressive red wine from the Premier Grand Cru Classé A estate in Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux.

The 2003 vintage across Europe was defined by an exceptionally hot summer and an early harvest. Thanks to the water-retaining clay subsoils of its prime parcels on the Pomerol border and meticulous vineyard management, Château Cheval Blanc crafted a richly textured, fragrant wine of unmistakable pedigree.

In the glass, the 2003 Château Cheval Blanc displays a deep ruby-garnet hue. The bouquet unfurls exotic aromas of ripe black cherry, blackberry, and roasted plum, interwoven with sweet spice, tobacco leaf, cedarwood, menthol, and a signature violet perfume from its high proportion of Cabernet Franc.

On the palate, the wine is plush, generous, and velvety, with fully integrated, cashmere-soft tannins. Layers of ripe dark fruit meld with dark chocolate, espresso, leather, and savoury earth, supported by balanced acidity.

Now in its prime drinking window, the 2003 Château Cheval Blanc pairs wonderfully with roast beef fillet, herb-crusted rack of lamb, or aged hard cheeses. We recommend decanting carefully prior to serving to allow its complex bouquet to blossom in the glass.