Château Leoville Las-Cases 2emé Cru Classé, Saint-Julien, 2000, 75cl

Strong ruby, purple reflections, broad rim brightening. Juicy, fruity-sweet and inviting, ripe plum fruit, fine tar, a hint of nougat. Full-bodied, complex, pleasant extract sweetness, silky tannins, wonderful balance and freshness, already accessible, mineral finish, great class.

The 2000 Léoville Las Cases takes time to unwind in the decanter and glass, but when it begins to show all its cards, the display is spectacular. Mingling aromas of dark berries and red fruits with aromas of pencil shavings, loamy soil, cedar box, bitter chocolate, dried rose petals and licorice, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered, complete mid-palate that's rare in this vintage, powdery tannins and a long, resonant finish. An uncompromising classic, even as it closes in on its 22nd birthday, the 2000 Las Cases remains an infant in terms of evolution. - William Kelley, Wine Advocate