As the second label of the renowned Premier Grand Cru Classé (A) estate Château Cheval Blanc in Saint-Émilion, the 2011 vintage of Le Petit Cheval would have been crafted to provide a more approachable and earlier-drinking expression of the Cheval Blanc house style. The 2011 growing season in Bordeaux produced medium-bodied, fresh-flavored wines, so the 2011 Le Petit Cheval was likely focused on ripe Merlot as the dominant grape variety, supported by Cabernet Franc for structure and aromatic complexity. While not possessing the same depth and longevity as the top Cheval Blanc cuvées, the 2011 Le Petit Cheval would have offered Bordeaux enthusiasts a more accessible and enjoyable interpretation of this prestigious estate's winemaking.