Serena Sutcliffe: Vintage September 15–28. In the previous 50 years at Cheval Blanc, only the 1990 and the 1989 were harvested earlier, which shows how things have changed more recently. At 44hl/ha, this was another relatively generous vintage. 12.8% ABV. 53% Cabernet Franc, 47% Merlot. Due to circumstances beyond hiscontrol (Mother Nature), this was Pierre Lurton’s first great vintage here. Smoky blueberries nose. Tremendously opulent—the Merlot was plump this year. This really rolls around the mouth. Very good indeed.