Château Leoville Las Cases 2008

Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider

Wine Enthusiast

A seriously dense and solid wine, that is however balanced with fruity acidity. The ripe tannins march comfortably with the fruit. This is a wonderfully rich wine, the juicy fruit giving an extra to the structure.

Falstaff

James Suckling

Super racy and balanced. Masses of licorice and currants, intense aromas. Full and very silky with an intensity of fruit. Reminds me of the 1996. B

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2008 Léoville Las Cases is composed of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc. Medium to deep garnet colored, it slowly unfurls to reveal compelling scents of Morello cherries, black raspberries, stewed plums and cassis with hints of dried Provence herbs, mocha, underbrush and charcoal, plus a lively waft of eucalyptus. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-coating black fruit layers with loads of bright herbal and minty sparks, supported by grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing long and savory.

Bettane et Desseauve

Jeannie Cho Lee

Jeb Dunnuck

One of the most classic, regal wines in the vintage, the 2008 Léoville Las Cases is made from 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Merlot. Possessing an incredible Cabernet character in its graphite, crushed rocks, green tobacco, and crème de cassis-like fruit, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, has integrated acidity, a deep, layered texture, and a distinct minerality and salinity on the finish. It’s just now at the early stages of its drink window, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it become one of the longest-lived wines in the vintage. It should hit prime time in another 4-5 years and keep for 30 years or more.