| Cheval Blanc 2004 • September 2005 | CHEVAL BLANC
1er Grand Cru Classé “A”
2004 vintage
Growing season and yield :
After the heat-wave of 2003, the weather conditions during 2004 were closer to what is normally expected in the Bordeaux region. As a result, the growing season began at the usual period. Bud-break occurred during the first week of April. The flowering process went quickly, from June 5 to June 9, according to the plots, with very little gap separating the Merlot and the Cabernet Franc. The mid-point for colour-change in the grapes was observed on August 6 for the Merlot and August 13 for the Cabernet Franc. The picking began on September 20 and finished on October 5.
The fine weather conditions during the flowering allowed the fruit to ripen evenly and well grouped together. They also caused the bunches to grow bigger.
The drought conditions during June brought about a deficit in the moisture supplied to the vine roots. As a result, the growth of the berries was limited, thus helping to concentrate the juice. The growth of the vine shoots also stopped early, particularly on those vines planted on gravel soils. Fungal disease threat was very low in 2004.
Vineyard management :
The growth of vine vegetation was regular and balanced in 2004. Crop size potential, with its high number of large bunches, was very big. Two separate crop thinnings, to avoid provoking a reaction of compensation in the vine and ensure the yield was properly under control, was necessary to make this vintage a success.
Quality of the vintage :
2004 will be a great vintage on the right bank at estates where the yield was carefully controlled. The conditions for moisture supply to the vine roots were perfect, with an early deficit in water which favoured concentration. Fortunately, it did not lead to stress in the plants, thanks to several rainy spells during August. Weather conditions were excellent during the harvesting. High quality batches were brought in from all the plots at Cheval Blanc. The vintage was particularly successful for the Cabernet Franc.
Cheval Blanc 2004 tasting notes :
- Intensely deep, dark red colour
- A little closed on the nose, opening out with aeration. Hints of flowers, white fruit, peaches. Subtly-oaked, air light.
- Fresh attack, full. Development on the palate which is all harmony and length. Great finesse. Finishes well with touches of black fruits.
Petit Cheval 2004 tasting notes:
- Lovely dark red colour with a mauve rim.
- More open than the Cheval Blanc, intense aromatic expression, showing hints of crushed black fruits, slightly toasted.
- Supple, fresh attack with the fruit coming to the fore. Firm structure that shows no aggressiveness. Coated, elegant tannins.
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