2023 Château Léoville Las Cases, St Julien, Bordeaux

Blend: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon; 10% Cabernet Franc; 4% Merlot.

This is arguably more classical in style than the monumental 2022. The tannins are more obviously to the fore, but they are so ripe and textured that they enhance the wine’s accessibility at this stage. Nevertheless, this will need patience. All the hallmarks of Las Cases are here: richly layered dark and red fruit; hedgerow and bitter coffee notes; with subtly musky floral and earthier tones. The expressiveness of the Cabernet Sauvignon gives the illusion of earlier maturity – but do not be tempted.

Drink 2023 - 2060

Our score: 18/20

Berry Bros. & Rudd