1992 Château Léoville-Las Cases

This tasting consisted of each of the varietal components of Las Cases, followed by the final blend for Leoville-Las Cases. The final wine is measurably better than any of its components. The soft Merlot exhibits a smoky, vegetal note, medium body, and a round, straightforward finish. The Cabernet Franc displays aromatic complexity, elegance, and good ripeness, as well as a tart style. The medium-bodied, closed, structured, firm Cabernet Sauvignon reveals bitterness and hardness in the finish. Although good, it is not special. The opaque-colored Petit Verdot possesses a high tannin level, more concentration and intensity than the Cabernet Sauvignon, and an astringent finish. The 1992 Leoville-Las Cases is one of the stars of what is overall a diluted vintage. Medium-bodied, with attractive aromatics (red and black fruits, minerals, and spicy oak), it is a forward, precocious Las Cases possessing grip and tannin. It can be drunk or cellared for 15+ years.