Cheval-Blanc St-Émilion Le Petit Cheval 2008

91 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The 2008 Petit Cheval has a composed bouquet with blackberry, desiccated orange peel, brown spices and a touch of cedar. The new oak here is judiciously used and allows the terroir to express itself. The palate is medium-bodied with plush tannin, well judged acidity and gentle grip in the mouth. There is just the right amount of sappiness here, the finish classic in style; saline and begging you back for another sip. Excellent. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners’ 10-Year On tasting. Drink: 2018-2032. (May 2018)"

91 points Chris Kissack (Winedoctor): "A slightly restrained nose at first, then showing a richly spiced character, cinnamon and cloves, with Cabernet pencil shavings, bay leaf and mint. A quite charming, full and polished palate, broad and fresh, with a supple and approachable texture, laced with finely grained tannins. This is long, peppery and grained in the finish. Charming and very drinkable, ready now although it may still evolve. Drinking well now. (Feb 2018)"

90 points Robert Parker: "The 2008 Le Petit Cheval (65% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot) is a light, but not a wimpy wine. It is more cedary and evolved, with spice box, tobacco leaf, licorice, and red and black fruits in a medium-bodied, classic style that should drink nicely for 10-12 years. Drink: 2011-2023. (May 2011)"

90 points Jane Anson (Decanter): "This is a little subdued on the first attack, taking its time to come round in the glass. It's a second wine with a mind of its own and a determination to make its own point aside from Cheval Blanc's main event. It's charming, with a strong emphasis on Cabernet Franc at this stage - extremely tightly pulled together, with lift through the palate leading towards a mouthwatering finish. Drinking Window: 2018-2038. (Jan 2018)"

90 points James Suckling: "I am surprised by the quality of the second wine this year, considering the difficulty of the vintage. Pierre Lurton, president of Cheval Blanc, said that they have really tried to improve the quality of the second wine, and it shows. There is lots of blueberry and chocolate character – serious Merlot character. Full and round with slightly chew tannins. Give it two to four years to come around. (12/19/10)"

90 points Wine Enthusiast: "Ripe, smoky, perfumed Cabernet Franc fruit with sweet, dusty tannins creates spice and a sweet chocolate character, followed by a finish that brings out acidity as well. (Apr 2011)"

90 points Falstaff (3/22/12)"