Domaine de Chevalier

Domaine de Chevalier is a highly-regarded wine estate in the Pessac-Léognan appellation of the Graves region just south of Bordeaux city. It was classified a Grand Cru Classé de Graves in 1959. The estate has around 45 hectares (110 acres) under vine on gravel and clay rich soils, with most of that dedicated to the red grape varieties. While Cabernet Sauvignon makes up the bulk of red plantings (64 percent), there is also Merlot (30 percent) as well as three percent Cabernet Franc and three percent Petit Verdot. Domaine de Chevalier is notable for having kept its 'domaine' title, which is more at home in Burgundy than it is in Bordeaux.

Soft and really approachable, this is a gentle wine. Shy, but pretty on the nose, it is decadent and could be enjoyed very early; but that's not to say it won't age well, all the component parts are singing in harmony: ripe, fleshy fruit, freshness, attractive acidity and silky, fine tannins. The finish is soft too. This is so silky and enjoyable, even when tasting a barrel sample.