1978 Chateau Cheval Blanc (Lightly Stained Label)

"Bright red. The captivating nose of red berries, minerals and grilled nuts is complicated by a delicate leafiness and a spicy tobacco note. Then sweet, bright and focused in the mouth, with flavors of red berries, tobacco, cedar and underbrush. Finishes very long and spicy, with a slight tannic kick at the back, but still manages to come across as refined and suave. This Cheval Blanc has always exhibited (especially in its youth), a firmer, more austere personality than most vintage. The 1978 growing season was characterized by slightly lower-than-average temperatures in the summer and fall. It was dry right through the very late harvest, which took place between October 9 and 18. There was a late start to the growth cycle and lots of mildew in the spring. This was one of the best bottles of 1978 Cheval Blanc I have ever tried." - 93/100 In'tl Wine Cellar