Makes a classic impression from the outset with ripe but contained, red and dark-berry aromas, framed in cedar, blackcurrants and violets. The palate has exceptional depth and very focused, pristine red-plum and cherry flavors hold long and seamless into the finish. A vibrant young wine. Second wine of Leoville Las Cases.

The 2016 Le Petit Lion is composed of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple colored, it leaps from the glass with notions of warm blackcurrants, blackberry pie, redcurrant jelly and tilled soil with touches of hoisin, Sichuan pepper, unsmoked cigars, red roses and smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, the palate explodes with vibrant red and black fruit preserves, with a wonderfully fine-grained frame and very long, lifted finish.

This elegant wine comes from young vines in the Clos of Leoville las Cases. It has something of the same structure but with a juicy fruitiness that contrasts with the tannins and density.

Solid, with dark plum and anise notes at the core, laced with mouthwatering briar and apple wood accents. Shows a textbook AOC profile, but not superdense, so drink as soon as this settles in while you wait for the big boys.