Domaine de Chevalier of the Pessac-Leognan appellation is classified as a Grand Cru Classe de Graves. The property belonged to the Ricard family from 1865 until it was purchased by its current owners, the Bernard family, in 1983. It is one of a very few Bordeaux estates to have kept its “domaine” title instead of using the the more popular “chateau” designation.

The estate covers a hundred hectares, of which 45 are under vine: 40 for the property’s red wines, and 5 for its whites. The vineyards are planted with 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot for the red wines, and 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon for the white wines. Soils are dark sand and fine white gravel.

Domaine de Chevalier has been run since acquisition by Olivier Bernard, who perpetuates that spirit of balance and the constant drive for perfection which have been the hallmark of their outstanding wines. The flagship red belongs to the elite of the great classified growths of Bordeaux, while the white is recognized as one of the world’s finest dry wines. The domaine also produces red and white second wines under the Esprit de Chevalier label, which are made from the estate’s young vines.

Olivier Bernard has this to say about his red wines: “Domaine de Chevalier rouge has good structure and a great deal of finesse, complexity, and aging potential – which does not exclude a smooth, fruity quality that makes it enjoyable in its youth. Always balanced, never aggressive, power is by no means the priority...”

Assistant General Manager, Rémi Edange adds: “Chevalier’s red wines are well-structured with round, very fine, tight-knit tannin... They are tremendously elegant and distinguished with a very long aftertaste and more delicacy than power...”

The 2017 Domaine de Chevalier is a stunning display of French viticulture, hailing from the prestigious Bordeaux region and specifically the sub-region of Pessac Leognan. This Bordeaux Blend is primarily a mixture of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a hint of Petit Verdot.

Upon pouring, you will immediately be struck by its deep garnet-purple hue, indicative of the richness and depth contained within each bottle. It presents a robust 13% alcohol content, which is perfectly balanced by the refined elegance of its profile.

The nose is a delightful mélange of baked plums, black cherry compote, and fruitcake, underscored by intriguing wafts of fragrant earth and an unexpected but pleasant note of rosehip tea. This wine is truly a sensory journey, revealing layers of complexity with every sip.

On the palate, this wine boasts a medium to full body, brimming with the sweetness of ripe, smoked red fruits. The tannins, though present, are soft and unobtrusive, effortlessly complementing the earthy undertones and the subtle hint of tobacco. The finish is marked by a beautiful cherry pipe tobacco and red berry sensibility, leaving a lasting impression long after the last sip.

Critics praise its depth and intensity, with notes of blueberry, hot-stone, slate and walnut adding further dimensions to this already multifaceted wine. This vintage is also noted for its longevity, promising a wine that will only grow more exquisite with time.

In conclusion, the 2017 Domaine de Chevalier is a testament to the mastery of its producer, a wine of undeniable class and sophistication. Its balance between fruitiness and earthiness, soft tannins and robust body, makes it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you choose to savor it now or let it mature, it is an investment guaranteed to yield rich, flavorful dividends.