Domaine de Chevalier, Blanc 2012

robert_parker91

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

Tasted blind at the Southwold 2012 tasting. The 2012 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc has an intriguing marine influence nose that nods towards Muscadet - well defined with white flower and chalky scents following suit. The palate is fresh and vibrant, well balanced and quite rounded in the mouth, easing down with a chalky, more linear finish. I suspect this has gone into its shell, ergo my parsimonious score vis-a-vis out of barrel, but in my experience, Domaine de Chevalier rewards long-term bottle age and I expect that score to float upwards with time. Tasted January 2016.

robert_parker95

Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.

A gorgeous effort, the 2012 Domaine de Chevalier, made from a blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon that reached 13.5% natural alcohol, boasts abundant notes of creme brulee, lemon custard, candle wax and oranges in its beautifully rich, honeyed personality. Great acidity gives laser-like precision to its component parts. Drink this full-bodied white wine over the next 2-3 decades.

robert_parker96

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

Tasted from a barrel sample at en primeur. The Domaine de Chevalier Blanc has a reserved, stony nose that you have to be patient with – give it a few minutes and there are some subtle undergrowth scents that begin to emerge, hints of orange blossom and dried apricot. The palate is well balanced with a delicate touch of spice on the entry. This is very focused with good weight and it displays wonderful tension on the finish that offers a Burgundy-like texture. Wonderful. Tasted April 2013.

robert_parker93

Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.

A beautifully elegant and complex wine, with subtle notions of citrus, honeysuckle and tropical fruits, this medium-bodied, fresh, super-pure 2012 from Domaine de Chevalier should drink well for 30 or more years. The color is light straw with a greenish hue to it.