Domaine de Chevalier Rouge Pessac Leognan 2016

Domaine de Chevalier Rouge Pessac Leognan 2016

Domaine de Chevalier Rouge 2016 (Pessac‑Léognan, Grand Cru Classé) is widely considered one of the estate’s greatest modern vintages, combining depth, freshness and silky tannins in a very classic Graves style.

The 2016 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge Pessac Leognan Magnum is a Bordeaux red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. This vintage offers an intense bouquet of blackcurrant, blackberry, and spice with subtle notes of tobacco and cedar. The palate is full-bodied and well-structured with firm tannins and a long, persistent finish. This wine is a true masterpiece from a top-class producer.

Critic tasting note: (2016 vintage)

"Tobacco, dark fruit and earth on the nose. The palate shows exceptional balance, with incisive acidity and precise dark fruit that are deeply appealing for their harmony. A blend of 55% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 5% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot. This is appealing now, but it will evolve wonderfully. Drink now or hold. 10 Years On retrospective." - James Suckling

"There is a depth of color and an even better depth of flavor. Smoke a Cohiba Behike in a fruit orchard and you get the idea of the perfume. On the palate, there are layers of elegant, silky textured fruits with sweetness, purity and richness. The finish keeps on going. The wine here is known for aging, so give it 12 years or more before opening a bottle and drink over the next 20-25 years, at least! There is no doubt, this is the finest vintage of Domaine de Chevalier Rouge ever produced, although the 2018 could be even better in the years to come! 97 Points" - Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider (97/100)

"This elegant wine wears its firm tannic structure lightly. It is densely textured, just starting on its road to maturity. Black-plum and berry fruits give the wine its weight as much as the tannins. It will age well over many years. Drink from 2026." - Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (96/100)

"Dark ruby, opaque core, purple reflections, subtle edge brightening. Attractive dark forest berry bouquet, a hint of cassis, subtle notes of blackberries and nougat, fine touch of orange zest, multi-faceted. On the palate full-bodied, dark cherries, finely structured, light chocolate notes. Fresh and energetic, already surprisingly harmonious and accessible, great pleasure to drink, a versatile food wine. What are you waiting for? (Drink/+30)." - Falstaff (94/100)

What is the blend and structure?

• Grape varieties: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot.

• Appellation: Pessac‑Léognan AOC, Grand Cru Classé de Graves.

• Alcohol: Around 13.5%.

• Élevage: About 18 months in French oak barrels, close to 35–60% new wood depending on source.

How does this vintage taste?

• Aromas: Blackcurrant, blackberry, black cherry and damson, with cedar, tobacco, graphite, pine needles, garrigue, smoked meats, oolong tea and floral notes (iris, red flowers).

• Palate: Medium‑ to full‑bodied, creamy yet agile; layers of sweet dark and red fruits, fine‑grained tannins, pitch‑perfect acidity and pronounced mineralité (slate, wet stone, cold ash).

• Finish: Very long, fresh and fragrant, with persistent black fruit, spice and subtle oak; repeatedly described as elegant, silky and “stunning.”

How is the 2016 positioned among other vintages?

• Many critics call 2016 “the finest vintage of Domaine de Chevalier Rouge ever produced,” or at least a strong contender alongside 2018.

• The wine is praised for combining power and concentration with hallmark finesse and freshness, making it a reference point for red Bordeaux in this vintage.

How long can you age it and how should you serve it?

• Aging window: Recommended to wait roughly 10–12 years from vintage; suggested drinking spans from about 2026–2055+.

• Serving: 16–18°C; decant 1–3 hours in youth to open the nose and soften structure. Pairs best with roasted or grilled red meats, game, duck, lamb and earthy mushroom dishes.