Lanessan 2000, Haut Medoc CB
Medium ruby; medium, garnet rim. Tones of cedarwood, forest floor, mushrooms, biscuits, leaning to a slightly 'bretty' cardboard and tin, blew off after ten minutes by black plum, red currant, wood spice. This claret is medium bodied with black, red fruits, crisp acidity and long fine powdery tannins leading to a soft, yet full-bodied and "velvety" palate.Very controlled. Wit mere 13.0% Alc for a ripe 2000 vintage, we believe this wine can still drink for another two years.
Stylistically, it may recall elements of Chateau Gruaud Larose and Chateau Lynch Bages. On average, the vines are 30 years of age. The vineyard plants to a vine density of 10,000 vines per hectare.
Vinification takes place in traditional, concrete vats; malolactic fermentation takes place in the tank; ageing in a combination of 33% new, French barrels, 33% one-year-old, French oak barrels and 33% two-year-old, French oak barrels for an average of 12 months. From a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc.
Berry Brothers write, 'It(sic, Chateau Lanessan) describes itself as Grand Cru Hors Classé, and this refers to the fact that one of the previous owners felt it unnecessary to submit samples for the 1855 Classification and consequently it's traditional ranking as a 4ème Cru Classé was never ratified. The chateau has a reputation for producing Cru Classé standard wines at Cru Bourgeois prices.'
Scores not so high. Hence, still cheap.
WA 89. "I am not sure this wine does not deserve an outstanding score. It is one of the finest Lanessans I have tasted over the least 20 years. A generous Lanessan, with a deep ruby/purple color and a classic nose of cedar, spice box, black currant, plum, and earth, the wine has sweet tannin, medium to full body, loads of concentration, and a long, layered finish, with light to moderate tannin. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2015." - Wine Advocate
Wine Spectator 88 Perfumed red, with floral, currant and dark chocolate aromas. Medium-bodied, with firm tannins and a medium finish. Delicate red. Best after 2004. (3/2003)
