The 2009 Léoville-Las Cases is a Bordeaux blend from the Saint-Julien sub-region of Bordeaux, France. Produced by the esteemed Leoville-Las Cases estate, this wine showcases the classic characteristics of the region, with a composition of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc. It offers a 13.5% alcohol content and is sealed with a cork closure.
Several professional reviewers have lauded the 2009 vintage, emphasizing its aging potential and complex flavor profile. The wine has consistently received high scores, with James Suckling giving it an impressive 99 points. He describes it as having "enormous concentration, but every bit as much finesse," and notes that it is "just beginning to give its best." This sentiment is echoed by Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com, who also awarded it 99 points, highlighting its "full-bodied, powerful, graceful and concentrated" nature.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, through reviewer William Kelley, awarded the wine 97 points, praising its "plenitude and generosity" and noting its "sweet cassis, loamy soil, cigar wrapper, spices, and a deft touch of classy new oak." Kelley adds that it is "medium to full-bodied, broad and enveloping," with a long and defined finish.
Wine Enthusiast also gave the wine 98 points, describing it as "beautifully structured" with "tannins layered between the ripest black plums, damsons, and black currants." They emphasize its opulence and density, suggesting it is a wine for long-term aging.
John Perry from JJ Buckley also rated the wine 98 points, noting its "perfectly pure notes of black cherry, raspberry, and cassis," as well as its supple and smooth palate. He describes it as a "blockbuster" that retains elegance and harmony.
Additional high praise comes from Wine Spectator, which also awarded it 98 points. They highlight its "gorgeously layered" flavors and "terrific intensity," suggesting it will age well for two decades.
In summary, the 2009 Léoville-Las Cases has been universally praised for its concentration, finesse, and aging potential. With flavors of cassis, black cherry, and anise, framed by fine tannins and a long finish, it stands out as an exemplary Bordeaux from a highly regarded vintage.