At a glance

Producer

Domaine de Chevalier

Region

Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Red Bordeaux Blend (primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$120 USD (750ml bottle, global retail)

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, plum, graphite, cedar, fresh tobacco, subtle spice. Oak influence supportive and elegant. Youthful, dark fruit-driven.

Evolution: Fruit will evolve towards tertiary notes: leather, truffle, earth; tannins will soften and integrate with acidity and oak.

At peak: Layered, complex bouquet with silky mouthfeel, harmonious balance of fruit, earth, and minerals.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, fresh

Tannins

Firm, fine-grained, moderate-high

Alcohol

13.0%-13.5% ABV (typical)

Aging potential

Excellent, 20+ years in optimal cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2031 to 2053

Optimal window

2028 to 2056

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Structured, primary fruit and oak evident, should be kept for further integration.

Domaine de Chevalier is known for its long-lived structure; the 2021 vintage, while fresh, has the concentration, acidity, and tannin for extended cellaring. Peak window reflects integration of primary fruit, tannin rounding, and the emergence of secondary/tertiary characteristics.

Food pairing

Roast lamb, duck, aged ribeye, wild mushrooms, truffle dishes, firm aged cheeses.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has firm, fine-grained tannins and is medium-bodied, which suggests it can benefit from aeration to soften the tannins and enhance the aromatic profile.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Minimal synthetic chemical use; increased organic vineyard management; cover cropping for soil health; waste water management; investment in energy-efficient cellar technologies; reduced packaging weight and recycled/renewable materials.

Domaine de Chevalier is recognized for leadership in sustainable Bordeaux viticulture, achieving HVE3 (top environmental French certification) and moving steadily towards organics. The estate prioritizes biodiversity, soil health, water management, and responsible energy use. While not 100% organic/biodynamic yet, progress is tangible. Transport abroad is the main sustainability concern, but at-origin practices are exemplary.