Cheval Blanc 1976

In this vintage marked by extreme drought, heat, and hope-crushing rains at harvest time, Cheval Blanc has produced an open-knit, super ripe, roasted style of wine that is now fully mature. It has put on weight, and while there is some browning at the edge, the 1976 Cheval Blanc has a full-blown bouquet of ripe fruit, minerals, nuts, and toasty oak. On the palate, the wine is opulent, even fat, with generous, savory, fleshy, plummy, fruity flavors. Low in acidity and very soft, the 1976 Cheval Blanc has been drinkable since its release, yet it continues to expand and develop. I initially underestimated this wine.