The 2016 Langoa Barton is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc picked between 29 September and 13 October. It is being matured in 60% new oak barrels. It has a very succinct bouquet, with a mixture of black and red fruit, a slight sea spray/estuarine tincture, hints of leather and brown spice in the background. The palate is very harmonious on the entry with a grainy texture. There is good backbone here, maybe just a little foursquare compared to other Saint Julien wines, but it gathers pace towards the finish that displays touches of spice and cedar. Understated and classic Langoa. 91-93 points

This is a controlled, confident and elegant demonstration of the appellation in this vintage. Coffee grounds on the nose and through the mid palate with tight, cassis-drenched fruits, cedar and menthol, ticking those St-Julien boxes. 94 points

Often more approachable in its youth than stable mate Léoville-Barton, Langoa has a lovely brightness and po ise in 2016, with the Merlot and Cabernet Franc contributing texture and aroma. Sappy and floral, with graphite and green pepper notes, and an overlay of oak that will integrate over the next few years. Drink 2026-34 93 points

The 2016 Langoa Barton is soft, pliant and absolutely delicious. Succulent red cherry, rose petal, lavender, mocha and sweet spice fill out the wine`s mid-weight frame effortlessly. Succulent and inviting, the 2016 is terrific today. The 2016 is marked by its energy and freshness, much of that the result of the Cabernet Franc, which is on the higher end of the range by historical standards. 90-93 points

Exceptionally dark purple. Very meaty, concentrated nose with real lift. Lots of graphite and grit. No spare flesh but truly terroir wine. Sinewy. Bone-dry finish. Very much in its own style. But long and precise. 17.5 points