A relatively recent arrival in the ancient Bordeaux region, the estate was not so long ago an unremarkable patch of uniform forest. Today it is an enclave of exceptional wine, protected on all sides by an accommodating wall of trees.
Archives from the 1600s describe the small Domaine de Chivaley as including “houses, outbuildings, gardens, grounds, vines, woods and meadows”. The name “Chivaley”, (meaning “knight” in Gascon) is believed to be linked, for an unknown reason, to the presence of the very old pilgrim trail to Santiago de Compostela which to this day borders the estate.
The term domaine, all but eclipsed by ‘chateau’ in the present day, describes a famiy residence and agricultural estate where viticulture coexisted with other crops and breeding.
The vineyard in its modern manifestation achieved fame at a rapid pace, thanks to a small number of truly dedicated owners who appreciated the value of this unique terroir. Only three men managed the Domaine de Chevalier until it was purchased by the present family in 1983. It was originally bought up by Arnaud and Jean Richard who laid the foundations – his son-in-law Gabriel solidified its reputation as a very fine wine.
The Bernard family has focused on the long-term, investing profits back into the estate and building upon an already formidable reputation for uncompromising wine of elegance and balance.
The terroir itself is tucked away in the middle of a forest, providing a consistent temperature for the grapes to enjoy. It is often referred to as a ‘secret garden in the Graves’ that, though secluded from competitors, provides one of the greatest wines in the entire region. The forests also protect against the dangers of monoculture, acting as an ecological shield. The woodland also provides a host of beneficial insects.
The vineyards span 42 hectares, 37 for red wine and 5 for white. The soils are gravelly and rich in minerals. The breakdown is 64 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 percent Merlot, 3 percent Cabernet Franc and 3 percent Petit Verdot for the red wines. The white wines consist of 70 percent Sauvignon Blanc and 30 percent Semillon.
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