Domaine de Chevalier 2017

Domaine de Chevalier is one of the top Grands Crus Classés in Pessac-Léognan. South of Bordeaux, it lies like a secret garden in a picturesque, secluded clearing in the woods.

Olivier Bernard, who was elected president of the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux at the end of 2012, invested carefully in his first estate in Bordeaux. Domaine de Chevalier became a fascinating combination of traditional Graves winemaking approaches and state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology.

For example, in 2015 this estate was one of the first major Bordeaux houses to use DIAM cork closures instead of conventional corks. These closures lead to fewer faults and help prevent premature oxidation. The Domaine’s white wines also therefore promise excellent ageing potential.

Olivier Bernard has ambitious plans for Domaine de Chevalier while making it clear that he wants to remain faithful to the regional character of his classic Pessac-Léognan wines and rejects speculative pricing.

The renowned Saint-Émilion consultant and winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt has also been brought in as advisor to the estate, promising further great vintages for this top producer.

Bordeaux is one of the world’s most renowned wine regions – a name that has stood for elegance, diversity and ageing potential for centuries. Gravel, clay and limestone soils alternate, allowing fine nuances in the wines that reflect both terroir and craftsmanship.

Bordeaux is typically known for blends in which grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc work together harmoniously.

Stylistically, red Bordeaux wines are defined by a balance of fruit, structure and freshness. The white wines – usually made from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and sometimes Muscadelle – range from crisp and citrus-driven to creamy and complex.