2017 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge, Pessac-Léognan (Pre-Arrival)
SKU #1355646
94-97 points
Jeb Dunnuck
Tasted no less than four times, the 2017 Domaine de Chevalier is going to be up with the crème de la crème of the vintage. Based on 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot aging in 35% new French oak, its deep purple color is followed by an incredibly classic bouquet of crème de cassis, crushed rock, pipe tobacco, smoked earth, and leafy herbs. Similar in style to the 2008, yet with more generosity and charm, it’s medium to full-bodied, silky, and elegant, with ripe tannin. Give it a few years and enjoy over the following two decades or more.
(4/2018)
93-95 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Domaine de Chevalier opens with a cedary waft giving way to a good core of crushed black currants, blackberries and mulberries with suggestions of black truffles, tilled soil and black olives plus a hint of smoked meats. Medium-bodied with a good, solid frame of ripe, fine-grained tannins and oodles of freshness, it is elegantly fruited yet well sustained on the mid-palate and long finish. (LPB) 93-95+
(4/2018)
94 points
Decanter
This stands out among many of the Pessacs this year, with plenty of depth on evidence, and a more obvious personality than most. The liquorice root, cigar and grilled almond notes are perfectly woven through the cassis and bilberry fruit, and here you can feel a slight ripple through the palate, while the tannins have presence and are alive. This feels poised, like it can stretch its wings and go the distance. A great job in this vintage. (JA)
(4/2018)
93-94 points
James Suckling
This is really delicious and round with soft and ripe tannins. Full body and juicy fruit. Shows ripeness and balance. A pretty wine to watch for the future.
(4/2018)
92-94 points
Vinous
The 2017 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge was cropped at 34hl/ha between 11 and 29 September and is matured in 35% new oak for 18 months. It has a vivacious bouquet with quite generous black fruit, raspberry, brine and black olive that is well-defined and focused, if not possessing the complexity of the previous two vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, slightly edgy tannin – layers of black fruit interlaced with melted tar and graphite, closing in a little towards the finish with a gentle grip. I appreciate the deft manner in which this fans out and leaves a mineral residue on the finish. A Domaine de Chevalier of refinement rather than power, one with 'buvabilité' or 'drinkability'. (NM)
(5/2018)
Jancis Robinson
Deep crimson. A little leafy, fragrant in a herbaceous style. Firm and chewy. Tongue-tied at the moment but there's finesse in the dark, dusty fruit and tender graphite notes. Smooth and polished yet compact tannins. Savoury, dry, subtle aftertaste. 17+/20 points. (JH)
(4/2018)
