Wines Saint-Émilion Château Cheval Blanc - 1961

Château Cheval Blanc 1961 is a legendary wine from the esteemed Saint-Émilion appellation on Bordeaux's Right Bank. This Grand Cru, renowned for its exceptional quality, is a blend dominated by Merlot and Cabernet Franc, grown on a unique patchwork of gravel and clay soils. The 1961 vintage is revered among collectors for its ideal climatic conditions: a mild spring, early flowering, and a perfectly dry, warm summer leading to intensely concentrated, impeccably balanced fruit. Vinification at Cheval Blanc is meticulous, involving separate parcel vinification and precise blending that highlights both power and finesse—a hallmark of the estate. Decades of ageing have coaxed out the wine’s sensual complexity, with tertiary aromas now mingling elegantly with the original fruit.

Saint-Émilion itself boasts a rich viticultural history, dating back to Roman times. The region’s soils are a fascinating ‘mosaic’ of gravels, clays, and sands, which lend distinctive character to the wines. The microclimate, tempered by the Dordogne River, ensures optimal ripening conditions and reduces vintage variation. Saint-Émilion is notable not only for its beautiful medieval town but also for its innovative producers, and the prominence of estates like Cheval Blanc has been central to its global reputation.

With its remarkable depth, fine tannins, and evolved aromas of truffle, dried rose, leather, sweet cedar, and preserved plum, this wine deserves cuisine with equal nobility. Classic pairings would include roast rack of lamb in a herb crust, Périgueux sauce, or duck breast served with fig compote—dishes that echo local tradition and highlight the depth and silkiness of the wine. Mature hard cheeses such as Comté or aged Saint-Nectaire also provide harmonious matches.

To fully appreciate the nuances of a wine of this age and stature, decant gently just before serving to avoid disturbing any sediment, and pour at a cool cellar temperature of 17-18°C. Such careful service will showcase the legendary elegance and complexity of this 1961 Cheval Blanc to its finest.