2009 Leoville Las Cases "Le Petit Lion" Saint Julien (1.5L)

From Jeb Dunnuck: "The first vintage for the estate's second wine, the 2009 Le Petit Lion is based on 71% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and there were roughly 2,000 cases produced. It's a charming, medium-bodied, mid-weight effort with classy notes of blackcurrants, tobacco leaf, lead pencil, and earthy, forest floor. Fully mature, it’s not going to get any better, yet it's elegant, lightly textured, thoroughly enjoyable, and in no danger of falling off a cliff over the coming decade." (11/23/2020)

(88-91) Points from Wine Spectator: "Currants on toasted bread character on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. Balanced and attractive. This is the new name for the second wine." (6/30/2010)

(88-90) Points from Wine Enthusiast Magazine: "The first release of a wine from young vines. It is charming, juicy and fresh, the fruit bright and lively." (3/1/2011)

From Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Served blind at the Southwold 2009 tasting. The Le Petit Lion is a little smudged on the nose at first, although it gains clarity with time: strawberry pastille and touches of coconut. The palate is light on the entry, builds slightly with peppery, spicy black fruit, although it needs a little more weight towards the finish. This is conservative but pleasant." (7/30/13)

From Decanter: "Soft, very easy to understand. Almost tertiary notes on the nose, the palate is smooth, silky and effortless. Has the balance of a St-Julien and slowly builds." (11/30/2016)