In Bond Fine Wine. 1982 Château Leoville Barton, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France. Second Growth • Red Bordeaux in 12x75cl. Top critic score: 92/100 (RP). Drinking window: 2025–2038. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau Leoville Barton is one of the most respected Second Growth estates in Bordeaux with a rich history dating back to 1826 when it was acquired by the Barton family—making it one of the few Bordeaux estates still in the hands of its founding family. The estate has built a reputation for producing classically styled, long-lived Saint Julien wines that embody the structure and restraint typical of the appellation. Originally part of the Leoville estate until it was divided into three, the 50-hectare vineyard sits on deep gravel soils. Leoville Barton is known for its consistent quality, traditional winemaking approach, and impressive value relative to its quality & Second Growth status. Recent standout vintages include 2010, 2016, 2019, and 2022, which stand out for their balance, depth, and ageworthy character. Today, the estate is managed by Damien Barton, continuing the family lega…
Neal Martin (NM) — 92/100 · Vinous, 2025-12-02 · Drink 2025-2038
The 1982 Léoville Barton has a slightly feral nose compared to its peers, probably due to some Brettanomyces, leaning towards Rhône in style, with hints of coffee granules that, frankly, are a bit off-putting. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly crunchy texture, plenty of black fruit intermixed with cedar and tobacco, showing some dryness on the finish. But this does improve markedly in t…
Robert Parker (RP) — 90/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 01/06/2009
With massive, huge concentration, excruciating tannin, this earthy, meaty St.-Julien has everything, but it needs to be forgotten for at least 10-15 years. At this tasting, it did not appear to have budged since the last time I had it, and it did not taste terribly different than it did at age five. While it is remarkably concentrated, it is hard to rate it any higher because it may take another…