1984 Château Cheval Blanc – Saint-Émilion

1984 Château Cheval Blanc – Saint-Émilion

Score: 87/100

The 1984 Château Cheval Blanc is a rare and intriguing vintage from one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated Right Bank estates. Known for its unparalleled finesse, complexity, and ability to age gracefully, Cheval Blanc produces wines that stand out even in difficult years. The 1984 vintage, however, was particularly challenging across Bordeaux, making this a less heralded but still historically significant bottling.

The 1984 Vintage in Bordeaux

The 1984 growing season was plagued by cold and wet conditions, particularly during the summer months. A lack of prolonged sunshine led to slow ripening and diluted concentration, while heavy rains in September forced many châteaux to pick early. The Right Bank fared better than the Left, as Merlot was able to reach better maturity than Cabernet Sauvignon, yet overall, this was a year of light-bodied, early-drinking wines rather than long-lived powerhouses.

Tasting Notes

Appearance:

The wine presents a medium brick-red hue with an orange-brown rim, showing clear signs of maturity. While the core has faded, the clarity remains impressive, suggesting good cellaring conditions.

Nose:

A delicate and evolved bouquet emerges with notes of dried red currants, old leather, and cedar, alongside hints of tea leaves, truffle, and faded violets. Subtle traces of herbs, tobacco, and damp earth reflect both the vintage’s cool conditions and Cheval Blanc’s unique terroir.

Palate:

This vintage is defined by its light-bodied structure and soft, fully integrated tannins. The fruit has largely faded, leaving behind flavors of dried cherries, underbrush, and worn saddle leather. A touch of pencil shavings and spice lingers on the mid-palate, while the acidity provides a gentle lift. The finish is short to medium, with echoes of forest floor and an herbal undertone.

Conclusion

The 1984 Château Cheval Blanc is a wine for those who appreciate subtlety and history rather than power and concentration. While the vintage lacked the ripeness of great years, Cheval Blanc’s signature finesse and terroir-driven elegance still shine through. Best enjoyed now, this wine is a fascinating piece of Bordeaux history and a testament to the estate’s ability to craft graceful wines even in difficult conditions.