Cheval Blanc produces the most famous Cabernet Franc wine in the world and is without a doubt the leading estate in St Emilion. Vines have been grown here since the 15th century but the most prestigious part of Cheval Blanc's history can be said to date from 1832, when Jean-Jacques Ducasse, President of the Libourne Trade Tribunal, purchased the core of the present-day estate. Over the next twenty years, the purchase of plots belonging to Château Figeac led to the creation of the 39 hectare vineyard as we know it today.

The marriage of Jean-Jacques' daughter, Henriette, with Jean Laussac-Fourcaud, a Libourne wine merchant, opened a new chapter in the history of Cheval Blanc that would define and consolidate the identity of this unique property. Her husband, aware of Cheval Blanc's outstanding potential and helped by an extraordinary intuition, replanted part of the estate in the 1860s with a totally atypical proportion of grape varieties: half Merlot (the king of the Right Bank) and half Cabernet Franc.

Formerly known as vin de Figeac, the wine was first sold under the name Cheval Blanc in 1852 and so began a prestigious career. By the 1880s Cheval Blanc was considered to be on a par with the first growths of the Médoc and in 1954 was one of only four estates that was given the highest possible distinction in the first classification of St Emilion: Premier Grand Cru Classé “A”.

In 1998 Bernard Arnault (owner of LVMH) and Baron Albert Frère purchased Cheval Blanc. They asked Pierre Lurton to manage the property for them. Cheval Blanc is turned resolutely towards the future. An impressive new cellar was completed In 2011 which is both futuristic and in keeping with the surrounding historic landscape listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today Pierre Lurton now manages their other estates, Chateau d’Yquem, Chateau La Tour du Pin and Quinault l’Enclos.

Saint-Émilion is a wine appellation located in the Bordeaux region of France. It is known for producing some of the finest red wines in the world, with a history dating back to the Roman era.

The style of production in Saint-Émilion is heavily influenced by the region's unique terroir, which is characterized by limestone and clay soils. The grapes grown here are primarily Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, with some Malbec and Petit Verdot also grown in smaller quantities.

The wines produced in Saint-Émilion are typically full-bodied and complex, with rich fruit flavors and a long, smooth finish. They are often described as having a velvety texture, with notes of blackberry, plum, and cherry, as well as hints of spice and oak.

One of the most notable features of Saint-Émilion wines is their aging potential. Many of the top wines from this appellation can be cellared for decades, developing even more complexity and depth over time.

The history of winemaking in Saint-Émilion dates back to the 8th century, when a monk named Emilion settled in the area and began producing wine. Over the centuries, the region's reputation for quality wine grew, and in 1955, Saint-Émilion was officially recognized as an appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC).

Today, there are over 1,000 wine producers in Saint-Émilion, ranging from small family-owned estates to large commercial operations. Many of these producers are committed to sustainable and organic farming practices, ensuring that the region's unique terroir is preserved for future generations.

Overall, Saint-Émilion is a truly exceptional wine appellation, producing some of the finest red wines in the world. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, a bottle of Saint-Émilion is sure to impress.