1998 Leoville Las Cases
By Chateau Leoville Las Cases
1998 Leoville Las Cases from Chateau Leoville Las Cases, St-Julien, Bordeaux
In the celebrated tapestry of Bordeaux's illustrious viticultural history, few vintages stir the soul quite like the enigmatic 1998. I have journeyed through the evolutions of countless harvests, yet there sits a standout chapter—a vintage both born of challenge and bearer of an unexpected benefaction. The 1998 Leoville Las Cases from Chateau Leoville Las Cases is an embodiment of this fortuitous turn.
Distinct Charms of a Distinguished Vintage
The climatic conditions of '98 wielded a dichotomous wand over Bordeaux—summer heat spikes and an uneven growing season laid the foundations for mercurial outcomes. It was those remarkable winemakers, such as the artisans at Chateau Leoville Las Cases, who transcended nature's capricious playbook to craft wines of substance and surprise.
The 1998 vintage from this venerable estate elucidates with supreme confidence that finesse may indeed rise from adversity. In your glass, expect a luxurious array of matured dark fruits, cassis and at this stage, a symphony of complex tertiary aromas; leather, tobacco and truffle notes pirouette around a core of assured tannins and impeccably integrated oak.
A Vintage Conducive to Wise Investment
Investors conversant with the intricate ballet of wine markets understand that pedigree plays a partner to providence. The '98 Leoville Las Cases proffers itself as one of these stellar opportunities—a vintage once overshadowed by its immediate successors but now emerging into a phase where its true distinction shines radiantly.
Patience has unfurled layers of sophistication and depth within this offering, suggesting promising horizons for investment portfolios encompassing fine wines with poised maturation curves.
This vintage from Chateau Leoville Las Cases not only represents the resilience and capability of St-Julien's terroir but also stands as a testament to the enigmatic nature of wine investment—where sometimes, the lesser sung vintages hold concealed worth awaiting appreciation by discerning collectors.
In summary, cherish the 1998 Leoville Las Cases for its narrative—a tale woven from climatic tribulations into a fabric rich with vinous virtue. For those who seek out jewels within Bordeaux's vast expanse, this particular vintage may very well add an iridescent thread to your collection's tapestry.
Market price (HKD)
HK$16,540.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
123.57
Scores and tasting notes
The 1998 Léoville Las Cases is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet colored with a touch of brick, it delivers pronounced, beautifully pure crème de cassis, blackberry preserves and prunes scents with an undercurrent of cigar box, licorice, pencil lead and hoisin, plus a touch of espresso. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has impressive richness and depth, coating the mouth with velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy. Still very youthful, this wine is in that sweet spot where it has considerable evolution and yet bags of fruit. Drink it now and for the next 20 years+.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 4 March 2021
No tasting note available.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2008
The 1998 has turned out to be one of the vintage's superb Medocs. It boasts an opaque black/purple color as well as a classic Leoville Las Cases display of lead pencil, gorgeously pure black raspberries and cherries, smoke, and graphite. A broad yet focused entry on the palate reveals firm tannin, medium to full body, superb concentration and purity, as well as a totally symmetrical mouthfeel. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #134 Apr 2001