Clos du Marquis Saint-Julien 2000

The nose shows loads of plum, spice and meat aromas, as well as hints of licorice. It’s full-bodied, with firm, yet velvety textured tannins. It’s big and rounded. If you can’t afford Las Cases, try some of this. Some might call this a second wine, but it comes from a plot of vineyards not deemed worthy of Léoville Las Cases. So it’s like its own estate. Best after 2009. Ranked #14 in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2003. Smart Buys. Score – 94. (winespectator.com, March 31, 2003)