2019 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Leognan, Grand Cru Classe

Because the understated property is surrounded by a dense forest, Domaine de Chevalier manages to feel like a peaceful enclave in Bordeaux rather than a powerfully imposing Chateau. The fact that they have retained the ‘domaine’ designation (more Burgundian) rather than ‘chateau’ also hints at the overall ethos of the place. The Bernard family refer to it as a ‘secret garden.’ We could hardly call the wines secrets anymore, but in the context of modern-day Bordeaux, they are definitely an insider’s choice. The combination of the surrounding trees and classically gravelly Graves soil provide for a cool environment conducive to lifted wines with an elegant, pronounced mineral character and intoxicating aromatic expression that can rival even the best of Margaux. The reds are generally 60-70% Cabernet with the rest Merlot and a small percentage of Petit Verdot & Cab Franc. Simply put, if you are a fan of poised Bordeaux more focused on finesse than sheer power then these are wines that would be a good fit for you.