I decanted the Chateau Chevalier (with a horse right on the label) Cabernet Sauvignon from California’s famed Napa Valley for about an hour and a half before pouring.
On the nose, I got some big fruit—blackberry, raisin, and maybe a little fig. There was a little “earthiness” and some [wet] leather notes, as well. The alcohol on this wine was evident on the nose.
On the palate, the fruit didn’t come on all that strong. I got some chocolate, cola, and spicy oak. The oak hit me like I had just licked a fresh-cut board. The tannins were present, but unimpressive, and didn’t integrate well with the alcohol. Overall, this bottle of the Chateau Chevalier was a little flat and not very “rich.”
The Rib and I have opened several bottles of the Chateau Chevalier Cabernet Sauvignon over the last year or so. If this had been my first experience with this wine, I definitely would not seek it out again, especially at the $25-$30 price tag (at Total Wine). Having enjoyed previous bottles much more, I look forward to opening one of the remaining two bottles we have in the cellar to prove our fondness for this wine. Until I open another bottle, I will cautiously recommend the 2004 Chateau Chevalier Cabernet Sauvignon. www.chateauchevalier.com
From the Corkpit,
Stub