Château Lespault-Martillac Pessac-Léognan 2019

“A clearing in the middle of the forest”: that is how Olivier Bernard describes Château Chevalier, an estate with a long history that was acquired in 1983 by his family (wine merchants). He expanded the vineyard (now 45 hectares), situated on a beautiful gravel terroir, made significant investments, and turned Chevalier into one of the pillars of the Pessac-Léognan appellation. Olivier Bernard also leases the Domaine de la Solitude, owned by the Sisters of the Holy Family, and Château Lespault-Martillac, owned by his neighbor Claude Bolleau. In 2015, he also took over the management of Château Suau, a 2nd-growth Sauternes.

This estate in Martillac, which belongs to the same owner as the Domaine de Chevalier, has produced a rich, full-bodied blend consisting of 65% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. It features generous red fruit flavors accentuated by aging in oak barrels. Best enjoyed starting in 2026. — Roger Voss

The 2019 Lespault-Martillac is round, juicy, and quite appealing. Red cherry, rose petal, mint, spices, licorice, anise, and citrus. The supple, creamy finish makes this a very lovely wine. This bold and punchy Pessac-Léognan is very easy to enjoy. Tasted twice. 2024–2039

It is impressive, with flavors of blackberry, mushroom, walnut, and blackcurrant. It is full-bodied, complex, and flavorful.

Elegant, refined, and fresh, this wine readily reveals a palette of smoky notes, coffee beans, flowers, and sweet cherries on the nose. On the palate, it is rich with spices and sweet, juicy, ripe red berries. The refined finish, with its creamy, supple tannins and refreshing acidity, is a real winner. You can enjoy it right away or let it age for a few years. Best enjoyed between 2024 and 2034.