2020, Esprit de Chevalier Blanc, PESSAC-LÉOGNAN

Bordeaux Blend: Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon.

The 2020 L'Esprit de Chevalier Blanc is bright, taut and nervy, almost surprisingly so for a second wine. Crushed rocks, lemon peel, mint, white pepper and sage lend tightness and energy. I won't be surprised if the 2020 turns out even better than this note suggests. I especially admire the tension here. 90-92 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.

The 2020 Esprit de Chevalier Blanc was picked from 25 August until 4 September at 43hl/ha and aged in 35% new oak. It has a light, slightly chalky nose with hints of orange blossom. The palate has a touch of honeyed opening, quite rich for an Esprit de Chevalier with tropical notes of guava and passion fruit furnishing the finish. Drink 3-4 years after bottling. 85-87 Neal Martin, Vinous.

Aromas of peach, citrus oil, lemongrass and toasted nuts introduce the 2020 L' Esprit de Chevalier Blanc, a medium to full-bodied, round and fleshy effort that's broader and more open-knit than its rather more precise 2019 counterpart. 89 William Kelley, Wine Advocate.

The 2020 L' Esprit de Chevalier Blanc sings of fresh peaches, pink grapefruit and pineapple, plus hints of sea spray and beeswax. Medium-bodied, the palate has a pleasant oiliness to the texture with bags of tropical and stone fruit flavour and a lively backbone, finishing on a honeyed note. 87-89 Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate.

Light and sappy with stone fruits, apricot and nectarine, there is an underlying sweetness that is hugely appealing. It really closes in through the palate and has a ton of grip with the touch of Pessac-Léognan elegance but can be rolled out and enjoyed straight away. 91 Jane Anson, Decanter.

Drinking Window: 2026 - 2040