Lot 506
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 1996 (1) WS 92 WA 98
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 1997 (1)
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 1998 (1) WA 94
Lot 506 Details
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 1996 (1)
Saint-Julien. 2ième Cru Classé
u. vts. soiled label. scraped capsule.
A profound Leoville Las Cases, it is one of the great modern day wines of Bordeaux. This wine's hallmark remains a sur-maturite (over-ripeness) of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Yet the wine has retained its intrinsic classicism, symmetry, and profound potential for complexity and elegance. The black/purple color is followed by a spectacular nose of cassis, cherry liqueur, pain grille, and minerals. It is powerful and rich on the attack, with beautifully integrated tannin, massive concentration, yet no hint of heaviness or disjointedness. As this wine sits in the glass it grows in stature and richness. It is a remarkable, seamless, palate-staining, and extraordinarily elegant wine - the quintessential St.-Julien. Despite the sweetness of the tannin, I would recommend cellaring this wine for 7-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035. WS 92 WA 98
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 1997 (1)
Saint-Julien. 2ième Cru Classé
u. vts. scraped label.
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 1998 (1)
Saint-Julien. 2ième Cru Classé
u. vts. soiled label. scuffed capsule.
Deep garnet colored with a touch of brick, it delivers pronounced, beautifully pure crème de cassis, blackberry preserves and prunes scents with an undercurrent of cigar box, licorice, pencil lead and hoisin, plus a touch of espresso. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has impressive richness and depth, coating the mouth with velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy. Still very youthful, this wine is in that sweet spot where it has considerable evolution and yet bags of fruit. Drink it now and for the next 20 years+. March 2021 WA 94