Wine Advocate – 90 Points
Tasted at Roberson’s Las-Cases vertical. Poured from magnum, compared to the 2000, the ’99 is also relatively youthful but does not exhibit nearly the same level of complexity or breeding, with blackberry, cedar and a touch of spice. Like the nose, the palate is a little softer than the 2000 with clean crisp tobacco-laced dark fruit with a very linear, quite tannic finish though without quite the fruit concentration to transcend the vintage. Very fine. Drink now-2020. Feb/2011 —Neal Martin | robertparker.com
Wine Spectator – 89 Points
Succulent and ripe red. Pretty and aromatic, with floral and berry character. Medium-bodied, with juicy, soft tannins. Long finish. Mar/2003 winespectator.com
Description
Merging Terroirs: Clos du Marquis
Clos du Marquis was born out of a desire to harness the best qualities of distinct terroirs. This innovative approach allowed for the creation of a wine that captures the essence of its exceptional surroundings.
Situated in the revered Saint Julien appellation, the vineyard producing Clos du Marquis boasts a coveted location surrounded by renowned Classified Growths, including the prestigious Léoville Poyferré and Léoville Barton estates. This proximity to esteemed neighbors contributes to the wine’s unparalleled quality.
The terroir of Clos du Marquis is exceptional, with its vines planted on the top terroirs of Saint Julien. The unique combination of soils and microclimate bestows upon the grapes the potential to produce wines of remarkable character and complexity.
Remaining true to its origins, Clos du Marquis continues to utilize the advantage of its prime location. The winemaking team meticulously tends to the vineyards, ensuring that each grape receives the utmost care and attention. The resulting wines reflect the exceptional terroir and the expertise employed throughout the winemaking process.
As you savor a bottle of Clos du Marquis, you can relish in the harmony between tradition and innovation. Each sip reveals the magnificence of the Saint Julien terroir and the dedication of the winemakers. Embrace the opportunity to experience the culmination of centuries of winemaking expertise in every glass.
A Legacy Unveiled: CLOS du MARQUIS
CLOS du MARQUIS is a distinguished winery located in the renowned Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France. Its rich history intertwines with the illustrious Chateau Léoville-Las Cases, known for producing exceptional wines. The story of CLOS du MARQUIS is a testament to the harmonious marriage of terroir, tradition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
The origins of CLOS du MARQUIS can be traced back to the prestigious Chateau Léoville-Las Cases. In the early 19th century, the Léoville estate was divided into three distinct properties: Léoville-Las Cases, Léoville-Barton, and Léoville-Poyferré. The portion of the estate surrounding the winery was designated as Léoville-Las Cases, while the adjacent vineyards, encompassing prime terroirs, were identified as CLOS du MARQUIS.
The name “CLOS du MARQUIS” pays homage to the historical significance of the vineyard. The “Clos” refers to the enclosed vineyard, showcasing the cherished vineyard plot. The “Marquis” signifies the title held by the former owners, the Marquis de Las Cases, who played a pivotal role in establishing the estate’s reputation.
Over the years, CLOS du MARQUIS has carved its own identity while remaining intrinsically linked to its esteemed sibling, Chateau Léoville-Las Cases. The vineyards of CLOS du MARQUIS are located in close proximity to those of Léoville-Las Cases, benefiting from the same exceptional terroir.
The terroir of CLOS du MARQUIS is extraordinary, characterized by gravelly soil, optimal sun exposure, and excellent drainage. These factors contribute to the development of grapes with exceptional concentration, complexity, and depth of flavor. The winemaking team at CLOS du MARQUIS harnesses these inherent qualities to produce wines of exceptional quality and character.
The vineyards of CLOS du MARQUIS are meticulously tended to, with sustainable vineyard practices and manual labor being integral to the winemaking process. Each grape is hand-picked at optimal ripeness, ensuring the preservation of its natural qualities and flavors.
In the cellar, the vinification process at CLOS du MARQUIS is executed with precision and care. Modern winemaking techniques are combined with traditional practices to extract the finest expression from the grapes. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled vats, allowing for precise control over the maceration process. Aging in oak barrels further enhances the complexity and structure of the wines.
CLOS du MARQUIS wines are known for their elegance, finesse, and ability to age gracefully. They offer a captivating combination of ripe fruit flavors, refined tannins, and a harmonious balance. These qualities reflect the distinct terroir of the vineyards and the expertise employed in crafting each bottle.
While CLOS du MARQUIS has its unique identity, it shares the same commitment to excellence as Chateau Léoville-Las Cases. Both estates strive to produce wines that exemplify the character and potential of the Saint-Julien appellation.
In conclusion, the history of CLOS du MARQUIS is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Léoville estate and its dedication to producing wines of exceptional quality. With each bottle of CLOS du MARQUIS, wine enthusiasts can experience the rich history, profound terroir, and winemaking mastery that define this remarkable estate.
