Clos du Marquis - Saint-Julien 2003

Wine Advocate

91

byRobert Parkerthe8/29/2014

In 2003, this was the second wine of Leoville Las Cases as opposed to a separate entity. A brilliant effort, it was harvested between September 11 and 26, and boasts 13.3% natural alcohol. The final blend was 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot. Its deep garnet/ruby/plum color is followed by notes of bay leaf, black currants, licorice and lead pencil shavings. The wine is deep, full-bodied, rich and fully mature, but its length, richness, freshness and complete feel suggest it will continue to drink well for 7-8 years. It’s a beauty.

Wine Advocate

90

byRobert Parkerthe4/24/2006

The 2003 Clos du Marquis possesses higher alcohol (13.4%) than the 2003 grand vin, no doubt because of the higher percentage of Merlot in the final blend. This impressive sleeper of the vintage boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as abundant amounts of fleshy, black cherry and currant fruit interwoven with mocha, vanillin, and spice box. Pure, layered, upfront, and already delicious, it should be drunk over the next 12-15 years.

Wine Spectator

90

byJames Sucklingthe3/31/2006

Very pretty aromas of blackberry, currant and licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety, round tannins and lots of attractive vanilla and berry flavors. Long. Best after 2009.

Wine Advocate

89-92

byRobert Parkerthe4/29/2005

This wine’s 13.4% alcohol is even higher than its bigger sibling’s. The 2003 Clos du Marquis exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, a classic nose of cassis and earth, medium to full body, supple tannins, and a long, fleshy, multi-layered finish. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.

Wine Advocate

90-92

byRobert Parkerthe4/29/2004

The 2003 Clos du Marquis is one of the finest second wines of the Medoc. Forty-six percent of the crop was used in this blend of 54.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42.6% Merlot, and 2.9% Petit Verdot. With higher alcohol (13.43%) than its big sister (13.27%), it exhibits an inky/ruby/purple color, great fruit, medium body, tremendous purity, and a long, flashy finish. It should drink well for 10-15 years.