The 2018 Domaine de Chevalier Bordeaux Blend is a truly exceptional wine that showcases the best of Pessac Leognan in Bordeaux, France. With its striking deep garnet-purple color, this wine is visually captivating, inviting wine enthusiasts to delve into its complex and alluring aromas.
On the nose, the intensity and perfumes are extremely impressive, exuding pure blackberries and violets, accompanied by notes of bark, wild mushrooms, and raw tile. The bouquet also reveals hints of crushed blackcurrants, fresh juicy blackberries, and ripe plums, complemented by crushed rocks, bay leaves, unsmoked cigars, and lavender. This symphony of scents is a testament to the wine's exceptional quality and attention to detail.
A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, this wine offers a full-bodied palate that is both powerful and elegant. Creamy tannins envelop the wine, while a subtly complex center palate showcases all the flavors found on the nose. The wine's impeccable balance and finesse are a testament to the winemaker's expertise.
With an alcohol content of 14.5%, this wine exhibits a beautiful tension and great length, finishing with a mineral-laced character that lingers on the palate. The structure of this wine is further enhanced by approximately 18 months of aging in oak barriques, 35% of which are new.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this vintage an impressive score of 99 points, calling it the "greatest ever." Wine Enthusiast awarded it 96 points, noting its richness, potential, and fine punchy tannins. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also praised this wine, awarding it 95+ points and highlighting its muscular black fruits and firm, ripe, grainy tannins.
The 2018 Domaine de Chevalier is a wine that will only improve with age. It is recommended to wait until 2026 before enjoying this exceptional vintage, and it can be cellared for over 25 years.
In summary, the 2018 Domaine de Chevalier Bordeaux Blend is a wine that exemplifies the artistry of winemaking in Pessac Leognan. With its captivating aromas, complex flavors, and impeccable balance, this wine is truly a masterpiece. It is a must-have for any wine connoisseur and will undoubtedly impress even the most discerning palates.