Cheval-Blanc St-Émilion Le Petit Cheval 2009

96 points Gilbert & Gaillard: "Deep garnet-red with ruby highlights. Profound, clean nose with red fruit in a lead role and very subtle oak. The palate combines power, volume, refined tannins and freshness. Elegance and harmony. Long. A successful wine. (Mar 2012)"

94 points Neal Martin (Wine Advocate): "Served blind at the Southwold 2009 tasting. A masterful showing from the oft-overlooked second wine, which outclassed many a Grand Vin under blind conditions. The 2009 has a classy, sophisticated bouquet with blackberry, cherry and a cheeky touch of espresso. The palate is medium-bodied with a pleasurable tealeaf and bay leaf element that complements the ripe spicy black fruit. This has a lot of character with a very composed finish. Just a shame it is as expensive as it is. Tasted January 2013. (Jul 2013)"

94 points James Suckling: "This has a little more Cabernet Franc than usual. Intense aromas of dried flowers, spices and blueberries. Full-bodied, juicy and fruity, with a beautiful softness and polish. Goes on for minutes. Best Petit Cheval. The second wine of Cheval Blanc. Best after 2018. (3/2/12)"

93 points Falstaff: "Dark ruby colour, purple reflections. Dark berry fruit delicately underlaid with violet on the nose, seductive aroma of blackberry and cassis, candied lime zest. Juicy, ripe heart cherry, fine fruit sweetness, elegant and balanced, finesse-rich acidity, very well balanced, mineral and persistent, fine chocolate note on the finish, delicate, with good certain ageing potential. (3/22/12)"

93 points Tim Atkin, MW.