2009 Cheval Noir
Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
Regular Price $24.99
Sale Price $19.99
So, here’s what we have today…a moderately priced wine from a very good vintage, from a place than, historically, makes wines that age well. What I like about this wine is that it shows some age (so what? So do I!) By that I mean some its fruit-forward exuberance has worn off, and some of its acidity has retreated, leaving behind a lovely, graceful, balanced and nuanced wine.
Here’s the thing…lots of people talk about aging wines, as in, “This wine needs some age”. But the reality is, aging wines is an imperfect science. Some wines won’t age well, due to the grape or the manner in which they are made. Additionally, many people don’t really like the changes that aging causes in a wine. And finally, older wines are usually expensive.
(One of the prevailing wine myths is that more expensive wines age better than cheaper wines. While that is sometimes true, it’s not because of the price tag. What is often true, however, is that less expensive wines get consumed sooner because they aren’t viewed as ‘special’, therefore, not ageworthy.)
At best, this wine will delight you. At worst, it’s a valuable experiment. Do you like it’s more reticent profile? If so, then cooler climate wines or wines with some bottle age likely speak to you. If, however, you find this wine underwhelming or ‘thin’, then wines that are younger, fresher and from warmer climates are more your preference. Whichever your choice, there is no wrong answer