Domaine de Chevalier Rouge, Pessac-Leognan, FR, 2020 (Futures) 6-pack 6x750 ml

WA: 97 + - Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Domaine de Chevalier comes skipping out of the glass with energetic scents of ripe red and black currants, fresh blackberries and boysenberries, plus nuances of wild sage, cloves and cedar with a waft of lavender. The medium to full-bodied palate surprises and delights with an unexpected richness and depth that remains locked away on the nose, revealing layers of fragrant earth and floral notions framed by fantastic freshness and firm, finely grained tannins, finishing with the most gorgeous, long-lingering perfume.

Domaine de Chevalier, classified Grand Cru Classé de Graves, is one of the most important wine estates in Pessac-Leognan. It makes both a red and a white grand vin: the former is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend, and the latter a classic white Bordeaux Blend.

The estate has around 45 hectares (110 acres) under vine on gravel- and clay-rich soils, with most of that dedicated to the red grape varieties. While Cabernet makes up the bulk of plantings, there is also Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, as well as Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Grapes are harvested by hand and vinified in lots to ensure the best possible wine – Domaine de Chevalier has a reputation for making good wines even in average vintages.