The junior of Léoville Las Cases is extraordinary this year. The grapes actually come from a seperate vineyard planted on exceptional terroir and surrounded on all sides by Second Growths (rather than younger and less successful vines at Leoville Las Cases. You will be tempted to bite into the aromas of blackberry, blueberry and this touch of vanilla without waiting these years in cellar that allow it to reach its true potential. A marvel.
“Lots of blackberry character, with hints of toasty oak and earth. Full-bodied, with chunky yet velvety tannins and a medium finish. Very well done. Almost 92-94. Score range: 89-91” Wine Spectator
“One of Bordeaux’s top second wines, the Clos du Marquis exhibits crunchy, juicy, red cherry and currant fruit along with notions of herbs and spice box. Well-made, medium-bodied, elegant, and reminiscent of its bigger sibling, it should age well for 10-15 years.” Robert Parker
" Clos du Marquis, AC St Julien 2004 (92) - While this is the second wine made at Chateau Leoville Las Cases, it is not made like other second wines. Rather than being made from younger vines or barrels not thought good enough for the main wine, Clos du Marquis has, since 1902, been made from its own sub-vineyard called Le Petit Clos, with very old vines. The wine is of classed growth quality, and the 2004 is very polished, with blackberry and cedar notes, touches of leather and truffle. It is a very dark wine, quite restrained, but with age it opens up and offers layers of chocolate, kir and bramble. Fine with decanting now, it will improve with another two or three years, and would go well with roast lamb or strong game dishes. " Tomas Clancy, Sunday Business Post, 14th June 2009
