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 2020 Domaine de Chevalier is a remarkable Bordeaux Blend that embodies the elegance and complexity for which the region is renowned. This wine hails from the prestigious Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France, and is produced by the esteemed Domaine de Chevalier. With a deep red color that hints at its intensity, this wine is a true gem.

On the nose, the 2020 Domaine de Chevalier reveals enticing aromas of iron, black mushroom, and dark berries, complemented by hints of burnt orange peel and flowers. As the wine opens up, it unveils a captivating bouquet of minty blackberries, cassis, burning embers, spices, rose petals, and orange rind. This complex array of scents sets the stage for a truly extraordinary tasting experience.

On the palate, the 2020 Domaine de Chevalier showcases a full-bodied and well-structured profile. The round tannins provide a velvety texture, while maintaining a linear and tight structure towards the end. The wine displays excellent energy, brightness, and purity, with a deep core of fruit that lingers on the palate. The acidity is well-balanced, adding vibrancy and freshness to the overall composition.

Renowned wine critics have praised the 2020 Domaine de Chevalier for its outstanding quality and potential for aging. James Suckling awarded it an impressive score of 97 points, describing the wine as having excellent energy, brightness, and purity. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also lauded the vintage, rating it 95+ points and noting its deep fruit core, powdery tannins, and long, saline finish.

Decanter hailed the wine as "bright, ripe, and round," with a deliciously textured palate that showcases vibrant red fruits, cool blue fruit touches, and stony minerality. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it an astounding 98+ points, calling it a "legendary wine" and praising its pure cassis, graphite, and scorched earth aromatics.

With an alcohol content of 14.5%, the 2020 Domaine de Chevalier is a wine that demands attention. Its remarkable complexity, exceptional structure, and potential for aging make it a true collector's item. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for years to come, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates.