The Barton family have owned St-Julien chateaux Leoville and Langoa since the early 19th century. But Mauvesin Barton is a much newer Barton project - though the chateau itself goes back to the 17th century (at least, and probably quite a lot earlier). The Bartons acquired Moulis chateau Mauvesin in 2011, and appended their family name as a sign of their commitment to quality. The clay-limestone and sandy gravel soils underpin excellent terroir, but there was a lot of work to be done. Drainage channels were laid, the winery was renovated, a new barrel cellar was built. In the vineyards, Merlot had been planted where the Cabernet should be and vice versa, so a comprehensive replanting programme is being progressively implemented. The family has also been mapping out gravel-heavy sectors on the estate where new vineyards might be profitably planted. Mauvesin is now much improved, and its future is bright. (NT 10/08/23)