Château Léoville Las Cases 2001 in magnum format is a benchmark wine from the prestigious Saint-Julien appellation, sitting at the heart of Bordeaux’s Left Bank. The estate, ranked as a Second Growth in the 1855 Classification, is renowned for its classic blends dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, usually complemented by Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The 2001 vintage experienced a relatively cool and balanced growing season, resulting in wines of nuanced structure, aromatic freshness and measured ripeness. Vinification here is meticulous, with gravity-fed cellars and a focus on elegance and the meticulous expression of terroir. Ageing takes place in high proportions of new French oak barrels, imparting subtle spicy notes and a refined texture.
The Saint-Julien appellation is admired for producing some of Bordeaux’s most harmonious, age-worthy reds, sitting geographically between Margaux and Pauillac. Its gravelly soils, rich in minerals and well-draining, encourage deep root systems and produce wines marrying Pauillac’s power with Margaux’s finesse. The region’s temperate maritime climate, influenced by the nearby Gironde estuary, offers a long, steady growing season, beneficial for ripening Cabernet grapes without excessive heat. Château Léoville Las Cases itself is situated on the famous Grand Enclos, regarded as the virtual extension of neighbouring Château Latour, and boasts a rich history dating back to the 17th century, cementing its place as a flagship for the region.
Pairing this 2001 Léoville Las Cases is a delight for classic cuisine. The wine’s structure, still vibrant with tannins and offering aromatics of cassis, cedar, graphite and discreet earthy truffle, is a match for roast lamb with rosemary, filet de boeuf en croûte, or traditional Bordelaise sauce. Regional cheeses, such as aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire, would highlight the wine’s complexity. For a local touch, try it with entrecôte à la Bordelaise or cèpes sautéed with garlic and parsley.
To enjoy this wine at its best, serve it at 17-18°C. Decant for at least one hour to allow the mature bouquet to unfold, especially when opened from a magnum, which aged more slowly and gracefully. This 2001 vintage is drinking beautifully now, showcasing a poised balance between fruit, structure and tertiary notes.
