Wow, this wine has really come on strong. A brilliant effort, it boasts an opaque purple color in addition to a gorgeously sweet nose (make that explosive nose) of blackberries and creme de cassis intermixed with minerals, smoke, and earth. The 2000 is opulent, full-bodied, and much more accessible than either of its two Leoville siblings, Leoville Las Cases or Leoville Barton, with low acidity, sweet tannin, and a layered, sumptuous finish. It continues to improve dramatically and looks to be a great success, rivaling the brilliant 1996 and 1990. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2030. 95 Parker Points