Grand Vin de Léoville du Marquis de Las Cases (1989)

About this wine

The 1989 Château Léoville Las Cases presents a deep ruby color, indicative of its maturity. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco, with subtle hints of truffle and earth. The palate is medium to full-bodied, showcasing flavors of cassis, sweet and tart cherry, and a touch of green, all framed by softened tannins. This wine is fully mature, blending classic character with elegance and austerity. The finish is refined and lingering, reflecting the wine's age and the exceptional terroir of Saint-Julien.

About the grape

In the 1989 Château Léoville Las Cases, the grape blend was composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its deep color and tannic structure, thrives in the gravelly soils of Saint-Julien, providing the backbone of the wine. Merlot adds softness and ripe fruit flavors, balancing the tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc contributes aromatic complexity and finesse, while Petit Verdot, used sparingly, enhances color and adds subtle spice notes. The vineyard's proximity to the Gironde River creates a unique microclimate that aids in the optimal ripening of these varietals.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1989 Château Léoville Las Cases is renowned for its exceptional quality, often considered one of the standout vintages of the estate.
• 🇫🇷 This wine is produced in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France, an area celebrated for its balanced and elegant red wines.
• 🏰 The vineyard's 'Grand Clos' is a walled plot that borders the esteemed Château Latour in Pauillac, separated only by a small stream called the Juillac.
• 🍇 The 1989 vintage is composed of a blend of grape varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, contributing to its complex flavor profile.
• 📜 Château Léoville Las Cases has a rich history, being part of the original Léoville estate before it was divided into three separate châteaux in the 19th century.

Palate profile

Producer

Château Léoville Las Cases, located in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France, is one of the oldest estates in the Médoc region. Originally part of a vast estate known as Domaine de Léoville, it was divided during the French Revolution, leading to the creation of Château Léoville Las Cases, Château Léoville Barton, and Château Léoville Poyferré. The estate has been managed by the Delon family since the late 19th century and is currently overseen by Jean-Hubert Delon. Notably, in 1976, the 1971 vintage of Château Léoville Las Cases ranked sixth among ten French and Californian red wines in the historic "Judgment of Paris" wine competition. The estate's vineyards are situated adjacent to those of Château Latour in Pauillac, separated only by the Juillac tributary.