It is rare that an estate can produce both world-class reds and whites – and Domaine de Chevalier is certainly a glowing example. From the acclaimed Grand Cru Classé property in Graves, we have assembled an outstanding selection of fine recent releases – including the extravagantly expressive Blanc from the 2019 vintage. These bottles rank with the best of their respective vintages and are not to be missed.
This princely property in Pessac-Léognan is encircled by forests deep enough that visitors to the winery sometimes get lost on their way in. Formed in the latter half of the 19th century, it was acquired in 1983 by the Bernard family, and the charismatic Olivier Bernard quickly became the face of the estate and an agitator for change.
The estate’s white wine has long been a legendary cuvée – an elegant, opulent blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon partially aged in new oak barrels, achieving riveting cut and tension. Under Bernard, renovations to the cellar and vineyards have rocketed the reds to the elite upper reaches of the region as well. Today, it is an estate mentioned in the same breath as other top Graves producers, while the pricing remains extremely reasonable. Vinous’ Antonio Galloni has called it “one of the crown jewels of Bordeaux.”
As of this year, the vineyards are farmed 100% biodynamically and celebrated consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt is helping achieve new heights of terroir transparency. In this southerly part of Pessac-Léognan, the gravelly soils always yield wines of nuance, with forests and hills providing sufficient shelter. In recent vintages, the wines have become more muscular and profound – brilliant acquisitions for the cellar that constitute superb value for the quality they offer.
Look to the 2019 vintage for a masterclass on balance and class, while the 2018 displays richness and lingering finesse. The stunning 2016, a “legendary Chevalier in the making” according to Jeb Dunnuck, netted scores of up to 99 points and the fresher 2014 encapsulated real refinement and sophistication.
Domaine de Chevalier: World-Class Reds and Whites
Featured Wines
Domaine de Chevalier Rouge, Pessac-Leognan, Cru Classe 2015
Regular price
$99.95 / 750ml
Sale price
$99.95 / 750ml
Unit price
/
per
$99.95 / 750ml