2014 Leoville Barton (St-Julien)

The 2014 Leoville Barton has a crisp, poised bouquet with graphite tinged black fruit, hints of crushed flower and clove, nicely define and gaining definition with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, beautifully judged acidity, sophisticated and poised, fanning out with confidence towards the fresh, energetic finish. This is a succinct and beautifully crafted Saint Julien with many years of drinking enjoyment to give. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. 94 points

In 2014, the wine is true to itself. lovely fresh fruit, refined flesh on the palate, fragrant, slightly sharp finish. 92 points

Léoville-Barton is more tannic and closed than its stablemate Langoa-Barton at this stage, as it often tends to be, but has the fruit weight and power to emerge from behind the extraction over time. Built to last, this is an ambitious Cabernet-based red of considerable quality. 94 points