Description
Domaine de Chevalier's 2016 vintage from the Pessac-Léognan appellation exemplifies the estate's dedication to crafting wines of depth and elegance. This vintage is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and the remaining 10% comprising Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.
Tasting Notes:
Aroma: The wine opens with complex aromas of blackberries, red and dark plums, cedar, and gravel, complemented by hints of red flowers and brown-leaf tea.
Palate: On the palate, it is full-bodied with a dense core of sappy fruit flavors, including kirsch, raspberry pâte de fruit, and plum reduction. The wine maintains freshness and vibrancy, supported by a bright iron spine, subtle tea and tobacco nuances, and a long finish infused with alder and tobacco flavors.
Critical Acclaim:
James Suckling: Awarded 97 points, noting the wine's sleek and powerful array of ripe dark fruit and its plush, focused, and elegant tannins, suggesting significant aging potential.
Jeb Dunnuck: Also rated it 97 points, describing it as a deep, concentrated yet incredibly elegant wine, predicting it will evolve beautifully over the next 3-4 decades.
Wine Spectator: Gave it 96 points, highlighting its dense core of fruit flavors, freshness, and long finish, recommending it be enjoyed between 2024 and 2038.
Lanigan Edwards
Serving Recommendations:
To fully appreciate its complexity, decanting the wine for a few hours before serving is advisable. Pairing it with dishes such as roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, or aged cheeses will complement its flavor profile.
In summary, the 2016 Domaine de Chevalier is a remarkable wine that showcases the estate's commitment to quality and the unique terroir of Pessac-Léognan. With its impressive structure and depth, it promises to provide enjoyment for many years to come.
Château Domaine de Chevalier stands as an iconic wine estate located in the Pessac-Léognan appellation within Bordeaux, France. With origins dating back to the 17th century, the estate boasts a rich history of winemaking excellence. Its 45 hectares of vineyards benefit from a diverse terroir of gravel, clay, and limestone soils, ideally suited for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot for red wines, as well as Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon for whites. Classified as a Grand Cru Classé in the Graves Classification of 1953, and for both red and white wines in the 1959 Classification of Graves, Domaine de Chevalier consistently produces wines of exceptional quality and finesse. The red wines are known for their depth, complexity, and aging potential, while the white wines exhibit elegance, freshness, and a vibrant minerality. Under the stewardship of the Bernard family since 1983, the estate remains committed to sustainable viticulture and meticulous winemaking practices, ensuring that each bottle reflects the essence of its prestigious terroir and heritage.