The 2011 Léoville Poyferré has a ripe bouquet with blackberry, boysenberry, graphite and pressed flower scents. Quite open and more fruit-driven than its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle grip, quite fine tannins and satisfying weight. Touches of black pepper and cedar line the finish, though here, it just misses a bit of tension and Poyferré`s trademark amplitude. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting. 91 points

This property, which has been on a qualitative tear over the last generation, has produced one of the most successful wines of 2011. A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, it is broad, rich, medium to full-bodied and dense. It boasts an inky/purple color as well as lots of concentration, silky tannins, and a bigger, richer mouthfeel than any of its St.-Julien peers. The result is one of the stars of the vintage. 94 points

Deep garnet hue. Lovely, refine, mellow and clean nose of ripe fruit and liquorice. Gorgeous, delicately threaded entry leading to a voluptuous, generous and juicy palate bursting with fruit and taste through to the delicately oaky persistence. Present but well-coated and chewy tannins on finish. High concentration of tannins (IPT 94). Should gain range at the elevage. 92 points