Clos du Marquis, Saint-Julien, 2017, 75cl

Since 2007, the Clos du Marquis comes from an entirely different vineyard in Saint-Julien than the Leoville Las Cases, so it is not a second wine. And there was only a small amount of frost on the western edge of this vineyard in 2017. A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2017 Clos du Marquis is medium to deep garnet-purple in color and struts confidently out of the glass with vibrant notes of crushed blackcurrants, warm blackberries and fresh black and red plums with touches of cigar box and bouquet garni. Medium-bodied, the palate is chock-full of zingy black fruits, framed by firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long with a skip in its step.- Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate

Dark ruby garnet, purple reflections, subtle edge brightening, dark wild berry fruit with a delicate nutty and herbal savouriness in the background, ripe cherries. Juicy, fine minerality, red forest berries, integrated tannins, delicate nougat on the finish, elegant, will soon be drinkable, a fresh food companion.

Wonderful aromas of blackberries, flowers, violets and Indian spices. Medium to full body with extremely polished, tight tannins that interface well with the ripe fruit. Remains extremely long and focused. A blend of 72% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot and 1% cabernet franc. Better after 2023.

Solid tannins come from the vineyard, giving this dense, concentrated wine with a powerful structure and blackberry fruits. The wine's future is assured, with richness, spice and fruitiness all coming together. Drink from 2023. Roger Voss