Domaine de Chevalier Blanc 2017

The 2017 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc is reduced on the nose and it needs 20 to 30 minutes in the glass to really find its (aromatic) voice: lemon curd, hazelnut, pressed white flowers and a touch of smoke as it finally speaks up. The palate is very well balanced with a fine bead of acidity: poised and lively, but quite reserved at first. This is a white Pessac-Léognan predestined for long-term ageing, so stick away in the cellar for a good few years. 2025-2050.

This is really powerful and structured with superb muscle and phenolic tension. Yet, it’s formed and polished, layered and dense. Full-bodied, but energetic and focused. Vibrant acidity. Goes on for minutes. Citrus, stone, straw, salt and chalk. Incredible. Try after 2023.

Closed on the nose to begin, the Domaine de Chevalier 2017 Blanc (composed of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Sémillon) opens to aromas of ripe pears, Golden delicious apples and white peaches with notions of straw, honeysuckle and chalk. Medium-bodied, the palate is seriously intense and racy with loads of mineral sparks on the finish. It was aged for 16 months in French oak, 35% new. 2021 - 2033

As with the red, this really does punch at the top end of the appellation. It's more herbal than some, showing attractive fresh herb notes of rosemary and sage. High quality white peach and nectarine flavours run though the palate, with slatey edges on the finish that are scraping the sides. It's a great wine that is going to age and develop. Oh - and there was a touch of frost here, but Domaine de Chevalier was, of course, well prepared, being located in a vulnerable spot. One-third new oak.
Drinking Window 2025 - 2040

Subtle but complex aroma. There's mealy oak spice entwined with grapefruit and pear, fragrant in a restrained and serious style. Less subtle on the palate in drive and length. Firm texture and still super-fresh. Balance and persistence with a promising future. Cedary/spicy aftertaste. Will probably age a good deal longer if you are willing to be patient.
Drink 2022-2032

Taut and mineral on the nose, the aromas of struck flint, lemon pith, coriander and wood smoke need coaxing from the glass at this stage. The true potential of this wine is revealed on the palate, with a wonderful waxy and rich entry cut by bright, vivid acidity that brings notes of lemon, grapefruit, and struck flint. The power builds through the mid palate, which gains weight and texture, with notes of set honey and beeswax, sweet charred lemons and a light wood smoke. The finish is long and tight, with great delineation of flavour. Real potential here.

Richness depth of fruit both nose and palate have lots of ripe apricots and nectarines. The mid palate is honeyed with candied peel mid sweetness and richness and although tropical fruits at the back give a lighter feel the finish is fleshy and plush. Drink 2021 - 2035.

Very refreshing and very bright in spite of its intensity and dimensions, this is a very good wine indeed and it is the crisp, aromatic, razor sharp fruit (which so many other estates fail to capture) which makes this such a knockout. It will work well early on, but also hold well and I anticipate that it will never lose this vivacity and drive.