1983 Léoville-Las Cases, St-Julien

Leoville Lascases 1983

Just a superb wine. It is refined, elegant, silky. Different to 82, but as good and is going well. Decanter and RP write correctly on the 1983 vintage as follows:

94 points Decanter

Again so young, almost not ready to drink but if you are patient things open up and start to sing. The tannic structure on this wine is just so impressive, still doing a good job of cradling blackberry and cassis fruits. It's a little less welcoming than the 1982. Harvest September 28 to October 18 (they began here one day before they finished up the 1982, and the yields were even bigger). More Cabernet in the blend than in 1982 because this was such a late ripening year that suited this variety. Petit Verdot 5% finishes blend. (JA) (7/2018)

94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Tasted at the Las-Cases off-line at The Square. Many years have passed since I last tasted the ’83 Las-Cases. It is reticent at first, like an old tongue-tied friend entering the room, then it blossoms with aeration offering scents of leather, chestnut, brambly black fruit and freshly rolled tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied with melted red-berry fruits, firm tannins and superb balance. Hints of bell pepper and sandalwood furnish the long, harmonious finish. This is a wonderful wine for the vintage that is drinking perfectly now. (NM) (7/2011)