Domaine de Chevalier Cru Classé de Graves 1997

Lot presentation

Domaine de Chevalier Cru Classé de Graves 1997

The wine

Although white wines only account for 15% of production at the estate (5 hectares out of a total of 35), they are behind the great reputation that this Cru Classé enjoys, as one of Pessac-Léognan's sixteen. The white wine from Domaine de Chevalier is a symbol of balance and elegance in Léognan. Composed mainly of sauvignon (70%), completed by sémillon, it develops aromas of tropical fruits and flowers. The palate is fresh, with a rare mineral intensity. It can be tasted after aging for 5 to 12 years. But the best vintages (1980s fro instance) can easily be kept for several years.

About the Producer Domaine De Chevalier

The Domaine de Chevalier only became a wine-producing property in the second half of the 19th century, and at the time still used its Gascon name of Domaine de Chivaley. Thanks to the ambitious owner, Jean Ricard, the quality of the production soon developed and gained public recognition. The property reached new heights in the 1950s on the basis of the advice of Professor Peynaud, who further improved the quality of the white wines. Oliver Bernard has managed the property since 1983, with the assistance of Professors Pascal Ribereau-Gayon and Denis Dubourdieu. Man's role is simply to reveal the terroir is the owner's guiding philosophy. However, the property's terroir is known for its capricious nature: poor at the surface with rich subsoil, at danger from frosts due to its basin-shape, but with plenty of sunshine thanks to a north-south orientation. And so special care is required if it is to reveal its exceptional character.

Detailed characteristics