Domaine De Chevalier
Léognan, France
Sequestered behind acres of mature forest in the eminent appellation of Pessac-Léognan, this shy, retiring property feels like something of a well-kept secret. Indeed, unlike some of its showier neighbours, it never felt the need to style itself as a chateau, preferring the more demure title of domaine – a name evocative of an old-fashioned working farm where vines mingle with livestock and food crops. However, Chevalier is a wallflower not to be taken lightly: it's a Cru Classé de Graves – and one of just six Graves estates classified for both its red and white wines. The winery itself – a low-slung ensemble of historic buildings complete with a glass-domed, cylindrical vat room – can be toured by prior appointment, alongside its contiguous vineyard (60 hectares planted for red, seven for white). Surprisingly, given the latter's relatively tiny footprint, it's a white wine, Domaine de Chevalier blanc, that ranks among the estate's most celebrated pours; however, visitors can decide for themselves which half of this rare red-and-white double act they prefer during a guided tasting.
Key Information
- Opening times: Mon – Fri, 9am-12pm, 2-5pm
- Signature wine: Domaine de Chevalier Blanc
- Wines produced: Red and white
- Grape varieties: Cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot, cabernet franc, sauvignon blanc, sémillon
- Time from airport: 25 mins from Bordeaux Airport
- Visit Domaine De Chevalier 's website
Location
102 Chem. de Mignoy, Léognan, 33850
.jpg)
