Domaine de Chevalier 1996

Characteristics and tasting tips for Domaine de Chevalier Rouge 1996

Tasting

Color
A dark red color of beautiful intensity is revealed, enhanced by brilliant purple highlights characteristic of a great Graves vintage.

Nose
The nose expresses a complex bouquet dominated by concentrated black fruit aromas, notably blackcurrant. Empyreumatic notes of smoke, roasted and toast appear with elegance, accompanied by a distinctive minerality evoking crushed stone. Spicy peppery touches add depth to the aromatic ensemble.

Palate
The attack is round and soft, gradually revealing a medium-bodied structure with a svelte and elegant texture. The firm yet ripe tannins are finely integrated into the fruit, offering a silky architecture. A thread of acidity confers a beautiful tension to the palate. The coated finish lingers persistently, expressing aromas of black fruit and subtle spices with a lively and slightly warm character.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs harmoniously with grilled or roasted red meats such as rib steak, roast beef or lamb. It also elegantly accompanies tender game such as duck or venison, as well as refined dishes in sauce. Mature cheeses also make for an interesting pairing.

Service and storage

Domaine de Chevalier Rouge 1996 benefits from being served at a temperature between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius. Decanting for two to three hours allows the wine's aromatic expression to be optimized. This long-keeping vintage is gradually reaching its peak and can be appreciated until around 2026.

A Grand Cru Classé de Graves with an elegant and refined style

The estate

Domaine de Chevalier is a Grand Cru Classé de Graves located in Léognan, in the heart of the Pessac-Léognan appellation. Truly created in 1865 by the Ricard family, the estate was acquired in 1983 by the Bernard family. Olivier Bernard today manages this 100-hectare single-block property, including 70 hectares of vines nestled in a clearing in the heart of the Léognan forest. The estate distinguishes itself by its Grand Cru classification for both colors and by its early environmental commitment, with organic certification obtained in 2023. Olivier Bernard's philosophy favors the expression of terroir and an environmentally respectful approach.

The vineyard

The Domaine de Chevalier Rouge 1996 vineyard stretches over soils composed of black sand and fine white gravel on a subsoil containing alios, a remarkably well-drained clay-gravel layer. This unique location in the heart of the Léognan forest creates a particular microclimate and exceptional biodiversity. The high planting density of 10,000 vines per hectare favors natural competition between the vines, guaranteeing concentrated and complex grapes. The Pessac-Léognan appellation confers characteristic finesse and elegance to the wines.

The vintage

The 1996 vintage in Bordeaux is considered excellent, particularly favorable to Cabernet Sauvignon. Weather conditions allowed for slow and regular ripening of the grapes, generating concentrated aromas and great complexity. This vintage stands out for its elegant structure and rigor, favoring finesse over opulence.

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (63 to 65%), Merlot (30%), Petit Verdot (3 to 5%), Cabernet Franc (2%)