2021 Domaine de Chevalier (Famille Bernard) - Pessac Leognan
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Tasting notes
In 2021, Domaine de Chevalier Rouge is decisively succulent and juicy. It certainly has not tried to force the structure or concentration, making it very approachable, supple and in turn captured a beautiful clarity of cassis fruit. The wine is exceptionally well balanced, with moderate intensity and concentration meaning it will be very enjoyable in its relative youth while age with grace. 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot
Critic scores
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Not showy but well balanced on the nose. There is lots going on here. All underneath but very satisfying. Pungent and very bordelais. (Much more accessible than of old!) (JR)
Looking at the Grand Vin, the 2021 Domaine De Chevalier is based on 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, with harvest not wrapping up until October 15. It's a terrific wine in the vintage offering ripe currant and darker berry fruits as well as classy oak, graphite, and scorched earth nuances. This medium-bodied, concentrated, balanced 2021 has ripe tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish. It actually reminds me slightly of the estate’s 2014, albeit in a slightly fresher package.
The 2021 Domaine de Chevalier has a beautifully defined bouquet with blackberry, pencil box and light oyster shell scents that gradually unfurl in the glass. This is unashamedly classic in style but not old-fashioned. The palate is very well defined with a taut line of acidity, very fresh and focused, revealing just a dab of black pepper and clove toward the finish. This is a succinctly styled Domaine de Chevalier that will age gracefully in bottle.
About the producer
Since buying the property in 1983, the Bernard family has cemented Domaine de Chevalier’s reputation as one of the Graves’s finest red and white wine producers, known for their sophisticated and elegant wines.