2012 Domaine de Chevalier
By Chateau Domaine de Chevalier
2012 Domaine de Chevalier from Chateau Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux
The year of 2012 marked Bordeaux with climatic whims, gifting the intrepid vignerons with challenges that culminated in a vintage rewarding astuteness and prowess. It is within this context that the 2012 Domaine de Chevalier emerges, weaving an intricate tale of resilience and elegance.
Character & Investment: The Essence of 2012
Nestled in Pessac-Léognan, the estates celebrated for stellar reds and whites alike, Chateau Domaine de Chevalier attests to the meticulous care required in such a capricious year. The 2012 vintage's temperament reflects both the fluctuating conditions of its birth and the attentive craftsmanship at play.
A Vintage Defined by Dedication
Endowed with a bouquet that mingles dark cherries and earthy undertones with a whisper of cedar, the 2012 offering from Chateau Domaine de Chevalier announces its gravitas upon approach. Its harmonious palate professes, through balanced tannins and a structured acidity, an insight into the tenacity of this storied terroir.
In the belly of the glass, blackcurrant notes interlace with subtle hints of smoked herbs and graphite—a testimony to an unparalleled devotion to viticulture and winemaking precision. The ageing potential here is not to be understated; there lies within each bottle an asset maturing towards irrefutable opulence.
In sum, whilst not the most heralded vintage across Bordeaux, those who sought quality over quantity will find their assiduity richly rewarded in the wines they crafted. The 2012 Domaine de Chevalier stands as an emblem of such success—an intelligent addition to any fine wine portfolio, promising appreciation both in complexity and economic value.
Historical Vintage Meets Contemporary Investment
For seasoned and nascent collectors alike, investment in this meticulous vintage promises longevity and an intriguing narrative arc. It serves as a striking reminder that exceptional winedom is predicated on much more than just seasonal blessings; it is the profound dance between nature's proposition and human artistry. Thus, over time, the 2012 Domaine de Chevalier from Chateau Domaine de Chevalier boldly claims its rightful place in the cellars of those who understand the multifaceted nature of wine investment—it’s not merely a purchase; it’s a prophecy fulfilled with each anticipative sip.
Market price (USD)
$530.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
30.71
Scores and tasting notes
This shows wonderful depth of fruit with blackberries, blueberry and spice. Minerals too. Full body, with beautiful and silky tannins and a long, long finish. Superb finish. Sensational for the vintage.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2013
One of the stars of the vintage, it boasts a dense purple color as well as a big, sweet bouquet of red and black currants, graphite, subtle flowers and well-integrated, toasty oak. Impressively built rich and medium to full-bodied without losing the quintessential elegance and finesse for which this famous estate is renowned, the 2012 Domaine de Chevalier is filled with purity, equilibrium and balance. The tannins are sweet enough that this wine should be accessible when released, and will last for 15-20 years. Is this a modern day clone of their brilliant 1953 (which I drank from magnum at Bern's Steak House in November for less than $500!)? I was joking with proprietor Olivier Bernard, who is now the president of the Union des Grands Crus, that his position seems to be accompanied by much higher scores from wine critics. Nevertheless, there is no question that Domaine de Chevalier has been on a relatively hot streak lately, and this 2012 is a beauty.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #206
Tasted from a barrel sample at en primeur. The Domaine de Chevalier has a lovely understated, very pure, quite feminine bouquet with seamlessly integrated oak that neatly encases the blackberry and blueberry fruit. There is a floral note that emerges with time. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins. There is a real backbone to this Pessac-Leognan, although the structured is disguised behind layers of velvety tannins. Gorgeous – but it deserves several years in the cellar. Tasted April 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013