1999 Domaine de Chevalier
By Chateau Domaine de Chevalier
1999 Domaine de Chevalier from Chateau Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
The millennium’s end was a particularly auspicious moment for the Bordeaux connoisseur, perhaps none more so than when discussing the esteemed 1999 Domaine de Chevalier from Chateau Domaine de Chevalier. This vintage resonates with those seeking a unique articulation of Pessac-Leognan’s gravelly soils, delivering an intoxicating blend of complexity and maturity that weaves a narrative only time can tell.
The Essence of Evolution: A Vintage Comes of Age
Now at the zenith of its evolution, the 1999 Domaine de Chevalier reveals layered grandeur that only two decades of careful cellaring can bestow. The nuances which define this superb vintage – a diversified yet precise range of aromas and flavours – stand as a testament to the masterful vinification and terroir harmony that Chateau Domaine de Chevalier is renowned for.
A Year Carved by Time
The year 1999 didn’t announce its harvest with the fanfare of more heralded vintages, yet its offerings in bottle form exhibit a stealthy splendour. The vintage finds its voice in subtlety: nuanced smoky notes meld with dark currants; firm tannins have mellowed into silky threads; what was once raw fruit has transcended into tertiary whispers of leather and truffle.
For the astute investor, this vintage presents not just a sensory delight but also a rarity, poised at the point where availability meets demand in the intricate dance of wine investment.
As I reflect upon this 1999 creation, it occurs to me that here lies a bottled coalition of time and terroir — a composition where each sip offers a vignette of the landscape’s history, a taste of the year that encapsulated both the tranquillity and anticipation at the end of a century.
To scribe an epitaph for this particular chapter from Chateau Domaine de Chevalier: it is one of confident assertion rather than extravagant proclamations - one for the collector who appreciates elegance over ostentation. The 1999 Domaine de Chevalier stands as an august contributor to any discerning portfolio, promising both drinking pleasure and potential capital appreciation as its legacy matures with each passing season.
Market price (CAD)
$1,210.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
55.38
Scores and tasting notes
The Domaine de Chevalier has a more introverted, but no less compelling nose compared to the Haut-Bailly with wonderful definition and clarity. Bright red-berried fruits, coconut, raspberry leaf and orange zest with cedar coming through with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied, beautiful tannins, lovely focus and breeding here. It has a Burgundy-like purity to it, oozes finesse on the finish. Superb. Drink now-2018. Tasted June 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2009
This is a classic, finesse-styled Graves. The 1999 Domaine de Chevalier reveals scorched earth, tobacco, and red currant aromas along with rich, elegant, savory flavors, sweet tannin, and better integrated oak than previous vintages have exhibited. Enjoy this medium-bodied effort during its first 10-12 years of life.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #140