2022 Le Petit Lion du Marquis de Las Cases, St Julien, Bordeaux

Description

This is quite something for a second wine. Not only does it reflect the accessible fruit and generosity of the grand vin, it also finds its own direction. It is direct and focused, with a serious tannic structure. There are mouth-watering notes of salinity along with tight, concentrated cassis and black cherry. Yet the wine is not especially high in alcohol (14%). This is a most rewarding, individual and authentic expression of the vintage, a mini-Las Cases and also in its own space. It should age well.

Cabernet Sauvignon 55%; Merlot 39%; Cabernet Franc 6%

Drink 2027-2040

Score 17/20

Berry Bros. & Rudd (April 2023)

Colour Red

Sweetness Dry

Vintage 2022

Maturity Not ready

Grape List Cabernet Sauvignon (55.5%), Merlot (38.5%), Cabernet Franc (6%)

Body Full Bodied

Producer Château Léoville Las Cases

About this wine

Cabernet Sauvignon

The most famous red wine grape in the world and one of the most widely planted.

Find out more

Saint-Julien

St Julien is the smallest of the ‘Big Four’ Médoc communes although, without any First Growths, it is recognised to be the most consistent of the main communes with many châteaux turning out impressive wines year after year. The wines can be judged as much by texture as flavour, and there is a sleek, wholesome character to the best. At their very finest they combine Margaux’s elegance and refinement with Pauillac’s power and substance.

Find out more

Chateau Leoville Las Cases

Château Léoville Las Cases is one of the largest and oldest classified growths in the Médoc. It is the largest of the 3 Léoville properties and now without doubt the leading estate in St-Julien.

Find out more