The 2010 L’Esprit de Chevalier Rouge and the 2010 L’Esprit de Chevalier Blanc are in short supply in our warehouse and will soon be gone. They are not to be missed by any serious wine enthusiast! Especially in this 2010 vintage. They can be enjoyed now, after a good hour of decanting or cellared for up to 15 years.

L’Esprit de Chevalier red and white are the second wines from Domaine de Chevalier in Pessac-Léognan, first created after the extensive new plantings at the domain in 1986.

In fact, the vineyard at Domaine de Chevalier is a single block of 42 hectares (37 for red and five for white), of which the younger vines, less than 40-years of age, make most of the second wines.

Domaine de Chevalier is renowned for its ability to produce great wines even in lesser vintages thanks to its superior terroir and a draconian selection in the vineyard and the celler. The single vineyard is surrounded on three sides by a dense forest which not only acts as a barrier against bad weather, but also creates an unique micro-climate by accentuating the thermal contrasts, creating a greenhouse effect in the summer which promotes even ripening.

l’Esprit de Chevalier red and white wines represent an outstanding value! They are complex, well-balanced, well-structured and elegant wines, true to Chevalier’s image, presenting many of the same qualities as the Grand Vin. The second wines mature faster and can be enjoyed sooner than the Grand Vin.

l’Esprit de Chevalier White 2010 – Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France ($33)

A blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Sémillon, l’Esprit de Chevalier is one of the best second wines from Bordeaux, especially at this price. Light straw color leads to aromas of white flowers with a touch of vanilla followed by medium body and tropical stone fruit flavors and a hint of sweetness from the Sémillon.  The refreshing acidity makes it a foil for shellfish, grilled fish and pasta with cream sauces.

l’Esprit de Chevalier Red 2010 – Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France ($33)

This full-bodied, full-intensity, opulent wine is perfectly balanced and silky-textured with aromas and flavors of black currant, blackberry, tobacco leaf and vanilla bean. It represents around 40% of the total production and shows well the essence of the Grand Vin, which was exceptional in 2010. Pair with grilled red meats.

Atanas Nechkov, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits wine supervisor

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