Domaine de ChevalierProducer from Bordeaux, France

Domaine de Chevalier, nestled in the heart of the Pessac-Léognan appellation, is one of Bordeaux’s most revered yet under-the-radar estates. Known for producing both exceptional red and white wines, Domaine de Chevalier has long been celebrated for its commitment to quality and its deep connection to the terroir. Often described as a "secret garden" due to its secluded location within a forest, the estate embodies a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, crafting wines that are both elegant and profound.

The history of Domaine de Chevalier dates back to the 18th century, although it was not until the late 19th century that the estate began to gain recognition. The property was purchased in 1865 by Arnaud and Jean Ricard, who began the process of transforming the estate into a serious player in Bordeaux. However, it was under the leadership of Claude Ricard, Arnaud’s grandson, in the mid-20th century that Domaine de Chevalier truly began to shine. Claude Ricard, with his dedication to meticulous vineyard management and winemaking, laid the foundation for the estate’s modern success.

In 1983, Domaine de Chevalier was acquired by the Bernard family, who brought a renewed focus on excellence and innovation. Olivier Bernard, who took over the management of the estate, has been instrumental in further elevating its status. Under his stewardship, Domaine de Chevalier has become synonymous with finesse, complexity, and age-worthy wines, earning a reputation as one of the finest estates in Bordeaux.

The Terroir of Domaine de Chevalier

The terroir of Domaine de Chevalier is the cornerstone of its identity and the quality of its wines. The estate’s 80 hectares of vineyards are planted on a remarkable gravelly outcrop, typical of the Pessac-Léognan region. These gravel soils, mixed with sand and clay, provide excellent drainage, encouraging the vines to root deeply. This deep rooting allows the vines to access a rich diversity of minerals, which is reflected in the complexity and depth of the wines.

The vineyard is divided into 45 hectares dedicated to red grape varieties, with 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and smaller amounts of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The remaining 5 hectares are reserved for white grape varieties, primarily Sauvignon Blanc, complemented by Sémillon and a touch of Muscadelle. This careful selection of grape varieties is designed to fully express the unique terroir of Domaine de Chevalier.

The estate’s location, surrounded by forest, creates a unique microclimate that protects the vineyards from extreme weather and contributes to the slow, even ripening of the grapes. This microclimate, combined with the estate’s gravelly soils, results in wines that are characterized by their balance, elegance, and ability to age gracefully.

Winemaking at Domaine de Chevalier

Winemaking at Domaine de Chevalier is a meticulous process that combines traditional methods with modern technology. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure that only the best fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats for the red wines and in oak barrels for the white wines. This approach allows for precise control over the fermentation process, ensuring that the wines retain their purity and complexity.

The red wines are aged in French oak barrels for up to 18 months, with around 40% new oak used each year. This ageing process enhances the structure and depth of the wines while allowing the tannins to soften, resulting in a wine that is both powerful and elegant. The white wines, which are also aged in oak barrels, are known for their vibrant acidity, minerality, and long, complex finish.