2007 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge Pessac-Léognan

No wonder Olivier Bernard was beaming. His 2007 is the latest in a line of stunning vintages which, apart from the amazing 2005, is his best wine since 2000. A brooding, spicy, damson nose leads on to a dense palate with blackberry, crushed cassis, tobacco and leather with a long, pure finish. The balanced, mouth-filling fruit is cloaked in velvety but significant tannins (higher than 2005) bestowing the wine with a fine, masculine, early-drinking style. Fantastic in the context of any vintage, and not far off the quality of Haut-Brion, this is an essential buy for any Claret-lover this year.

"Light and very slightly raw fruit nose. Solid and chunky. No tricks. Bone dry. Savoury. Confident. Very straightforward even if not voluptuous. Not that much weight but good balance. Nice long finish. All on the finish which is certainly a good sign."
(Jancis Robinson - www.jancisrobinson.com - Apr 08)
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"Deep, ruby colour. Nose lightly floral, not pronounced. Mid-weight, structured but not overly so. Nice acidity. Good. Everything in place. Not outstanding, but very pleasant. Classical style." (Beverley Blanning MW - Apr 08)
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