Domaine de Chevalier

History of Domaine de Chevalier

The history of Domaine de Chevalier dates back to the mid-15th century, when the first traces of a wine-growing operation were recorded. However, it was from 1865, under the direction of Arnaud and Jean Ricard, that the estate truly began to forge a reputation in the Bordeaux landscape. After decades of hard work and expansion, the estate was classified among the Grands Crus de Graves in 1953.

In 1983, the destiny of Domaine de Chevalier took a decisive turn with its acquisition by the Bernard family. Olivier Bernard, then a young man of 23, took over the operation. Under his direction, the estate underwent a complete restructuring, with modernization of the cellars and an increase in vineyard areas. The objective is clear: to perpetuate the estate's heritage while elevating the quality of the wines to the highest level of the appellation.

Today, the Bernard family continues to manage the estate with passion and dedication. In 2023, the estate obtained organic certification, after having generalized biodynamic practices across all of its vineyards as of 2021.

The 2019 vintage of Château Domaine de Chevalier was rated 97/100 for its red wine and 96/100 for its white wine by Robert Parker, illustrating the quality and elegance of this grand cru of Pessac-Léognan.

Terroirs and Vineyards of Domaine de Chevalier

Domaine de Chevalier benefits from a unique terroir, located south of Bordeaux, in Léognan, in the heart of the Landes forest. This particular geographical location gives the estate natural isolation, where the forest plays a key role in regulating temperatures and protecting the vines from climatic extremes. The terroir, composed mainly of gravel and clay, is perfect for growing traditional Bordeaux grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc.

The vineyard extends over approximately 65 hectares, of which 58 hectares are dedicated to the production of red wines, with a dominance of Cabernet Sauvignon (63%), followed by Merlot (30%), Petit Verdot (5%) and Cabernet Franc (2%). The remaining 7 hectares are devoted to white wines, where Sauvignon Blanc (70%) and Sémillon (30%) share the plots. This diversity of grape varieties, combined with complex and well-drained soil, makes it possible to obtain wines of great aromatic richness and exceptional finesse.

The estate is segmented into 90 distinct parcels, each benefiting from specific conditions in terms of exposure and soil composition. The vines, which are on average 30 years old, are cultivated with total respect for the environment, in accordance with the principles of organic and biodynamic agriculture. This sustainable approach guarantees the preservation of the terroir and the production of grapes of optimal quality, year after year.

Vinifications at Domaine de Chevalier

Vinification at Domaine de Chevalier is based on unique expertise, combining tradition and modernity. For white wines, the entire fermentation process takes place in French oak barrels, 30% of which are new. This choice is not motivated by the search for a woody expression, but rather by the desire to preserve the purity and complexity of the aromas of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature, and the wine is aged on fine lees for 12 months, with regular bâtonnage to enrich the texture and structure of the wine.

Regarding red wines, vinification is carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and wooden casks, allowing for gentle and progressive extraction of tannins. The blending of red wines is done early, as early as January, to ensure perfect fusion between the grape varieties. Aging in French oak barrels lasts between 14 and 24 months, depending on the power of the vintage, with a proportion of new wood varying from 40 to 60%. The goal is always to preserve the elegance and finesse of the wine, while conferring upon it a harmonious tannic structure and remarkable aging potential.

The Cuvées of Domaine de Chevalier

Domaine de Chevalier produces three main cuvées, each embodying the excellence of the terroir and winemaking expertise.

The Red Grand Vin of Domaine de Chevalier - Grand Cru Classé de Graves

The red Grand Vin of Domaine de Chevalier is a prestigious wine, produced from the finest parcels of the vineyard. Made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, it is distinguished by its complex structure, silky tannins and impressive aging potential. This wine is aged between 18 and 24 months in barrels, 50% of which are new, giving it intense aromas of black fruits, spices and beautiful minerality. Each vintage reflects the richness and diversity of the terroir, with notes of graphite, cedar and great freshness.

The White Grand Vin of Domaine de Chevalier - Grand Cru Classé de Graves

The white Grand Vin is one of the most renowned dry white wines of Bordeaux. Composed mainly of Sauvignon Blanc, with a touch of Sémillon, it offers an exceptional aromatic palette, combining notes of exotic fruits, white flowers and minerals. On the palate, it is characterized by great vivacity, beautiful tension and a long, persistent finish. This wine is ideal for young drinking, but it also develops more complex aromas over time, thanks to 12 months of barrel aging.

L'Esprit de Chevalier Red and White

L'Esprit de Chevalier is the estate's second wine, created in 1989. It comes mainly from young vines and cuvées that do not quite have the structure necessary to enter into the composition of the Grand Vin. L'Esprit de Chevalier red is a charming wine, more accessible in its youth, with supple tannins and generous fruitiness. As for L'Esprit de Chevalier white, it is distinguished by its freshness, aromatic purity and balance. These wines offer excellent value for money while reflecting the DNA of Domaine de Chevalier.

The Estate's Third Wine

The estate also produces a third wine, from younger parcels or cuvées that do not meet the requirements of the first two cuvées. This wine is aged in barrels for approximately 10 months, with a more supple and accessible blend, perfect for more immediate consumption.

The vintages of Graves and Pessac-Léognan, two appellations of Bordeaux, are distinguished by their consistent quality. The years 1975, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1988, 1989 and 1990 are particularly appreciated for their finesse and balance. The vintages 1998, 2000, 2005, 2008, 2009 and 2010 are also remarkable for their structure and aging potential. More recently, the vintages 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 confirm the continuity of this excellence, with wines offering both elegance and longevity.

Explore the entire collection of Grands Crus Classés of Graves, an appellation renowned for the diversity and quality of its wines. At the top of the list, the Premier Grand Cru Classé of 1855, Château Haut-Brion from Pessac-Léognan, is a historical reference. For red and white wines, estates such as Château Bouscaut, Château Carbonnieux, Château Malartic-Lagravière, Château Olivier, Château Latour-Martillac and Domaine de Chevalier offer interesting cuvées. On the red side, you can discover the wines of Château Fieuzal, Château Haut-Bailly, Château Latour Haut-Brion, Château La Mission Haut-Brion, Château Pape-Clément and Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte. White wine enthusiasts can turn to the productions of Château Couhins, Château Couhins Lurton and Château Laville Haut-Brion. These estates offer you a wide range of wines to discover in the heart of the Graves region.

Domaine de Chevalier embodies the excellence of the Pessac-Léognan appellation, with red and white wines of great finesse and elegance. Thanks to an exceptional terroir, precise vinification and environmentally respectful management, the estate continues to produce remarkable wines, certified organic since 2023. Whether for the Grand Vin or the L'Esprit de Chevalier cuvées, each bottle expresses the quintessence of the terroir and the passionate commitment of the Bernard family.

Discover also other estates and châteaux of Bordeaux such as the great White Bordeaux like Yquem, the most illustrious of Sauternes!