Domaine de Chevalier Blanc, Pessac Léognan, 2024
Adrien Bernard believes that 2024 for whites is even better than the “reference” white vintage 2021. It’s hard to disagree, at Domaine de Chevalier, at least. The Bernards consistently turn out some of Bordeaux’s best and most age-worthy whites. The 2024 is true to type offering classicism, core strength and grip alongside ripeness and plenty of verve. There is a body and ripeness that many lesser 2024s lack – with a mid palate that reveals ripe mirabelle notes, but also a wonderfully ripe crystallised grapefruit and orange zest freshness. A balanced and complex white Bordeaux that sits above most of its more primary, one-dimensional, white Bordeaux peers. A blend of 70% Sauvignon and 30% Semillon, Ageing in oak barrels (a third new) for 16-18 months.
critic reviews
After a little shaking, notes of fresh pears, lemon pie, and lime blossoms slowly emerge from the glass, leading to touches of coriander seed and wet pebbles. The light-bodied palate is tightly wound and intense with mineral and citrus layers giving way to a long, chalky finish. Classic great, age-worthy DDC Blanc!
The 2024 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc was cropped between September 4 and 16 at 48 hl/ha, with just a tad more Sauvignon in the blend this year. There is impressive intensity on the nose with scents of apple blossom, orange cordial and hints of yellow flowers. It unfolds wonderfully in the glass. The palate is well balanced with a winsome, slightly resinous texture, notes of ginger-infused orange pith and wild peach flavours. Very harmonious and tensile on the finish, this is gearing up to be a superb Domaine de Chevalier Blanc that could well end up at the upper end of my banded score.
Full of character, intense, grippy, green apple, white pear, white peach, unripe mango, sage and saffron and just so juicy on the finish. Great potential, clear ageing ability, fragrant and confident. Harvest 4 to 19 September. 33% new oak.
A blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon, the 2024 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc reveals aromas of crisp stone fruit, confit citrus and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and layered, it's sappy and bright with a gently oaky frame and a long, ethereal finish.