Leoville las Cases 1998

The 1998 has turned out to be one of the vintage’s superb Medocs. It boasts an opaque black/purple color as well as a classic Leoville Las Cases display of lead pencil, gorgeously pure black raspberries and cherries, smoke, and graphite. A broad yet focused entry on the palate reveals firm tannin, medium to full body, superb concentration and purity, as well as a totally symmetrical mouthfeel. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025. *** Only 40% of the harvest was included in this wine, which is one of the finest Medocs of the vintage. It boasts an opaque black/purple color, superb intensity, surprising weight, and classic blackberry and cassis flavors intertwined with vanillin and minerals. Full-bodied, with remarkably mature, sweet tannin, this blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc is an exceptional effort in a tricky Medoc vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030.