One of the oldest Medoc estates, Domaine de Leoville belonged to some of the wealthiest and most influential noble French families before it was acquired by the Las Cases family. Like many properties after the French Revolution, the estate was divided between 1826 and 1840 into the three Leovilles we know today: Leoville-Las Cases, Leoville-Poyferre and Leoville-Barton.

Chateau Leoville-Las Cases was created, thanks to a kind of birthright, from three-fifths of the original estate, including the very heart of the property. The Grand Vin has therefore been sourced from the best part of the original terroir since the 17th century.

Pierre Jean, Adolphe, and Gabriel de Las Cases were successive heirs to the property until 1900, when Theophile Skawinski purchased a share in the estate and became its manager. Leoville-Las Cases has now been managed by the same family since the late 19th century and is today represented by Jean-Hubert Delon, sole owner of the chateau and proprietor of Chateau Potensac in the Medoc and Chateau Nenin in Pomerol.

The Grand Vin is the product of exceptional terroirs from the heart of the original Leoville estate. These are located mainly in the Clos Leoville-Las Cases, which you pass as you leave the village of Saint-Julien for Pauillac. They extend over nearly 60 hectares producing Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with a complex, polished expression and characteristics which are totally unique to the Grand Vin of Las Cases.

The 2001 Leoville-Las Cases is an exceptional Bordeaux Blend that embodies the elegance and finesse of the St Julien region in France. With a deep garnet color that hints at its maturity, this wine immediately captivates the senses. The nose is filled with vibrant aromas of kirsch, blackberry preserves, and blackcurrant pastilles, accompanied by intriguing scents of star anise, cumin seed, potpourri, oolong tea, and tobacco leaf. A delicate waft of incense adds a touch of mystique to the overall aromatic experience.

On the palate, the Leoville-Las Cases 2001 is a true revelation. It exudes exotic spice, floral, and dried berry notes that dance harmoniously on the medium-bodied framework. Soft tannins provide a velvety texture, while seamless freshness adds a sense of liveliness to the wine. The finish is long and distinguished, showcasing impeccable poise and sophistication.

Renowned wine critic Lisa Perrotti-Brown of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this vintage an impressive score of 94 points. She describes the Leoville-Las Cases 2001 as "exquisitely elegant" and praises its explosion of flavors on the palate.

Neal Martin of Vinous also highly rates this wine, awarding it 94 points as well. He notes the generous nose with black plums, graphite, and cedar, while highlighting the medium-bodied palate with sappy red fruit, white pepper, sage, and fine grip. Martin acknowledges the complexity and the admirable finish of this vintage.

Wine Spectator, in their review from March 2004, gives the Leoville-Las Cases 2001 a score of 94 points as well. They describe it as "very floral and perfumed" with an emphasis on violets, roses, and berries. The wine's full-bodied nature, ultrafine tannins, and racy finish are praised, along with its freshness and focus.

James Suckling, in his tasting note from January 2021, awards the wine an impressive 95 points. He notes the Pauillac-like characteristics, despite it being a St.-Julien wine, with lead pencil, dried herbs, currant, and black olive. Suckling describes the wine as medium to full-bodied, firm, and creamy, with a persistent and long finish. He recommends decanting the wine a few hours in advance to fully appreciate its austerity.

Overall, the 2001 Leoville-Las Cases is a wine of exceptional quality, showcasing the best of Bordeaux's terroir and winemaking expertise. Its complexity, elegance, and ability to age gracefully make it a true gem for any wine connoisseur.