Leoville las Cases 1986

The late Michael Delon always thought that this was the greatest vintage he had produced. We often tasted it side by side with the 1982, because I always preferred the latter vintage. Of course, the two vintages are quite different in style: the Leoville las Cases 1986 is a monument to classicism with great tannin, extraordinary delineation and a huge full-bodied nose of sweet, ripe cassis fruit intermixed with vanilla, melon, fruitcake and a multitude of spices. The wine has always been phenomenally concentrated yet wonderfully fresh and vigorous. The wine still seems young yet it is hard to believe it is not close to full maturity. It is a great example of Leoville Lascases and another compelling reason to take a serious look at the top Cabernet Sauvignon-based Médocs of 1986.
Anticipated maturity: 2005-2035