Domaine de Chevalier
L'Esprit de Chevalier Pessac-Léognan Red Bordeaux Blend
Pessac-Léognan, Graves, Bordeaux, France
2015 vintage. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot and 10% petit verdot (compared to 55% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 5% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot for the grand vin). The grand vin is absolutely fabulous in this vintage, so it comes as no surprise that the lesser lots are pretty good too. The nose has some of the class of his big brother, with cassis, cedar wood and the typical spiciness, but without the ripeness and complexity. The mouth is pure and fresh with ripe cassis fruit and the acidity shining through a bit more here, but still it's layered, balanced and very attractive for one third of the price. A slight vegetal touch in both nose and aftertaste might be related to a higher percentage of Petit Verdot (?). By all standards a very nice Pessac-Léognan for the price, just don't compare it to the amazing grand vin.
2015 vintage. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot and 10% petit verdot (compared to 55% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 5% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot for the grand vin). The grand vin is absolutely fabulous in this vintage, so it comes as no surprise that the lesser lots are pretty good too. The nose has some of the class of his big brother, with cassis, cedar wood and the typical spiciness, but without the ripeness and complexity. The mouth is pure and fresh with ripe cassis fruit and the acidity shining through a bit more here, but still it's layered, balanced and very attractive for one third of the price. A slight vegetal touch in both nose and aftertaste might be related to a higher percentage of Petit Verdot (?). By all standards a very nice Pessac-Léognan for the price, just don't compare it to the amazing grand vin.
Jul 25th, 2020
I thought I would like this more based on other reviews that I read. I don’t know if it just needs more time or a day or two of being open at this stage. Felt very primary/young and not showing much besides fruit.
I thought I would like this more based on other reviews that I read. I don’t know if it just needs more time or a day or two of being open at this stage. Felt very primary/young and not showing much besides fruit.
Jul 28th, 2021
Another great 2nd. Rich and dark in the glass, the nose is fresh but earthy with floral notes, coffee and dark fruit. Palate evolves over a couple of hours, opening into a great blend of stewed fruit, spice, almond, sour cherries and baking spice. Tannins are firm but acidity is in check and there is a nice medium length finish which has a little tart sweetness. Very enjoyable and plenty of unexpected complexity.
Another great 2nd. Rich and dark in the glass, the nose is fresh but earthy with floral notes, coffee and dark fruit. Palate evolves over a couple of hours, opening into a great blend of stewed fruit, spice, almond, sour cherries and baking spice. Tannins are firm but acidity is in check and there is a nice medium length finish which has a little tart sweetness. Very enjoyable and plenty of unexpected complexity.
Oct 18th, 2020
