Chateau Leoville-Las Cases 2021

Wine Advocate Parker:

One of the wines of the vintage, the 2021 Léoville Las Cases is reminiscent of a hypothetical blend of the 1999 and 1996—only better. Offering up incipiently complex aromas of cassis, plums and dark berries mingled with loamy soil, cigar wrapper and exotic spices, it's full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, with superb amplitude and concentration, velvety tannins, lively acids and a long, penetrating finish. Uniting classicism and charm, it exemplifies how a great terroir, exigent agronomy and meticulous winemaking can deliver greatness even in a less propitious vintage. It's a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc and a mere 5% Merlot this year, checking in at 13.2% alcohol.

James Suckling:

This is very tannic and powerful with currant and salty undertones. Inky. Blackberry and blackcurrant, too. Full-bodied with lots of power at the end.

Falstaff:

Deep dark ruby garnet, opaque core, violet reflections, delicate rim brightening. Nougat, black berries, fresh dark cherries, a hint of spice, inviting bouquet. Taut, tightly woven, very lively, fine tannins, finesse and adherence, subtle sweetness on the finish, red cherries in the aftertaste, sure aging potential for many years, the proportion of Cabernet Franc gives the wine a special touch.

*En Primeur: Delivery in early 2024*