2018 Chauvin
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Chauvin rolls effortlessly out of the glass with notions of spiced black plums, blackberry preserves and mulberries with hints of clove oil and incense. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers loads of juicy black fruit flavors with a soft texture and just enough freshness, finishing spicy.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Chauvin has a comparatively opulent bouquet for the vintage, though not over the top, offering black cherries, red plums, potpourri and light black pepper scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a fine underlying salinity and a precise finish that requires 3–4 years to open. Good potential.
Checking in as a mix of 85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in 50% new oak, the 2018 Château Chauvin is a rich, powerful wine that clearly ranks with the finest wines from this address in the past decade or so. A dense purple hue is followed by awesome black raspberry and spiced cherry fruits as well as notes of chocolate, dried herbs, sandalwood, and tobacco. With full-bodied richness, a round, layered mouthfeel, and ripe yet certainly present tannins, it has some up-front appeal given its beautiful fruit and texture, yet it deserves 4-6 years in the cellar and will be a 20- to 25-year wine. Bravo!
The 2018 Chauvin is rich and generous in the glass, with plenty of black cherry, espresso, menthol, licorice, chocolate and new oak flavors. Beautifully layered and sumptuous, Chauvin is so expressive today. The 2018 is quite lush, but it has enough energy to keep things in balance. Best of all, it will drink well with minimal cellaring.