DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER

The 2002 Domaine de Chevalier has more intensity in the nose compared to the 2003 with gorgeous scents of blackberry, briary, cedar and leather that simply blossom in the glass in classic style. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannin, a fine line of acidity, full of tension right from the start. There is impressive fruit concentration here with brambly red fruit, plenty of spice and black pepper flourishing on the finish. This 2002 seems to have a new lease of life and is easily the finest example that I have encountered. Tasted blind at the Domaine de Chevalier vertical at the property. Drinking range: 2022 - 2038 Rating: 92 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Sept 2022)

(a blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 5% petit verdot and 5% cabernet franc; 13.4% alcohol): Deep ruby-red. Delicate scents of black cherry, forest floor, ink, licorice and minerals. Sweet and pliant, with flavors of dark fruits, tobacco leaf and fresh herbs nicely lifted by juicy acidity. This has sneaky concentration for what was a weak, rainy vintage. With its rather silky texture, fleshy black fruit flavor and restrained sweetness, it's also drinking well relatively early and there probably isn't a lot to be gained by holding onto it much longer. Rating: 89 Ian d'Agata, www.vinousmedia.com (Apr 2013)

This price does seem ridiculous for a landmark property. Not concentrated ruby. Light admittedly but very delicate and refreshing and could only be made in Bordeaux, Utterly swallowable. So lively – though be warned, it is light and flirtatious but very appetising. Drinking range: 2011 - 2025 Rating: 17 Jancis Robinson OBE MW - www.JancisRobinson.com (Mar 2012)