2011 Leoville Barton (St-Julien)

Firmly structured, dense and medium-bodied with moderate tannin, this austere and backward yet well-endowed 2011 needs 5-7 years of bottle age. Whether the fruit holds up to the tannic structure remains to be seen, but the dark ruby/purple color, purity and impressive depth as well as concentration augur well for future positive development. Forget this 2011 for 5-6 years and drink it over the following 15-20. 88+ points

The Leoville Barton has a very elegant bouquet that takes time to unfurl. There are lovely notes of blackberry, dark plum and a touch of graphite. It unfurls beautifully if you lend it five minutes. The palate is very well balanced with fine tannins, good substance, very elegant and refined with a natural, slightly earthy finish that is long in the mouth. Superb persistency – this is one of the top Saint Julien wines. 93-95 points

Beautiful garnet hue. Mature fruit on the elegant nose. Superbly broad and generous entry leading to a delicately fleshy palate - both voluptuous and linear- offering rich blackberry flavours. Rich complex finish with delicate scents and flavours coming to the fore. A stunner - reflecting the superb quality of the cabernet sauvignon. A blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot and 5% cabernet franc. The most striking feature remains its low alcohol content - a mere 12°5. Will be pure gold flowing seamlessly on your palate. Yield. 36hl/ha 92-93 points

A classic Léoville-Barton that deserves to sell well, this is aromatic and bright, with Asian spices, dark plums and some sweet bramble and cassis flavours framed by fresh acidity and grainy, subtly extracted tannins. Fans of “off vintages” from this reliable château would do well to buy a case or two and cellar it. 10+ years. 95 points