Pessac-Leognan, Third Growth.
70% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Semillon.
The Domaine de Chevalier is a great name that inevitably comes to mind when we think of Pessac-Léognan wines. It is based on a 45-hectare vineyard planted on gravel with clay-gravel subsoils. The red grape varieties (40 ha) are 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet franc. The white grape varieties (5 ha) are 70% Sauvignon blanc and 30% Sémillon.
James Suckling: 97-98/100
This is layered and complex with an impressive mineral tension and depth. Medium- to full-bodied, very long and persistent. It has oyster shell, crushed stone and citrus peel character with racy acidity coming through, adding to its length and tension. Very long and firm at the end with a backbone of fine tannins for a white.
Jane Anson: 96/100
Got to be the most consisent of all Pessac Léognan whites, sets out its stall immediately with fresh acidities and fennel spice, giving a kick and lift, classically nuanced and structured. White pear, sage, liqourice root, savoury as all hell, and so moriesh.
Antonio Galloni - Vinous: 94-96/100
The 2023 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc is one of the best dry whites of the year. Creamy and expansive, with terrific brightness, this exudes balance. Citrus confit, white pepper, mint, almond, pear and crushed rocks are some of the notes that build as the 2023 shows off its pedigree. I expect it will offer exceptional drinking for the next several decades. What else is new?
William Kelley - Wine Advocate: 94-96/100
A perfumed, complex bouquet of pear, white peach, hazelnuts, lime tree leaves and spring flowers prefaces the 2023 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and concentrated wine with racy acids, chalky, structuring dry extract, and a bright, vibrant profile that's rare in this vintage.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Independent: 94-96/100
The white 2023 Domaine de Chevalier soars from the glass, after a swirl or two, with vivacious notes of white peaches, fresh pineapple, and juicy pears, leading to suggestions of coriander seed, honeysuckle, and candle wax. The medium-bodied palate is tight-knit and vibrant, with well-knit acidity and a long, chalky finish.