The clos of Léoville Las Cases is one of the most recognisable sites in the Médoc. This magnificent vineyard overlooking the Gironde adjoins the great Enclos of Château Latour. We are talking hallowed ground! As with all vintages of Las Cases, expect a classically styled, impressive, long-term wine. Dominated by Cabernet, this is all graphite and black fruits – taut and focussed. If you want a fleshy fruit bomb, turn away now; this is for drinkers who appreciate architectural lines and are blessed with patience. We have no doubt this will develop into an exceptional Léoville, which may well resemble past glories from the 80s and 90s.
“The 2021 Léoville Las Cases was picked from 28 September until 8 October and includes just 5% Merlot from the northern sectors of the vineyard due to coulure. They found that increased percentages of Merlot did not contribute to the blend. Matured in 85% new oak, it has an intense nose with black fruit, graphite and light iris flower aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, quite a potent marine influence at play, almost briny (perhaps accentuated by the changeable weather on the day of my visit). Very impressive in terms of depth and backbone/grip with iodine and oyster shells towards the finish, this is a cerebral Las-Cases that will demand patience. Then again, name me a vintage of Las-Cases that doesn't! Alcohol here is at 13.20%. 94-96/100” – Neal Martin, vinous.com
Read More“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. 95-97/100” – William Kelley, The Wine Advocate