In Bond Fine Wine. 2019 Château Leoville Barton, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France. Second Growth • Red Bordeaux in 3x150cl. Top critic score: 97/100 (NM). Drinking window: 2029–2048. 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…
Jeb Dunnuck (JD) — 97–99/100 · JebDunnuck.com, 30/06/2020
The vivid purple, almost blue-hued 2019 Chateau Leoville Barton is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated wine that includes 16% Merlot. It will spend 18 months in a mix of new and used barrels. Classic Barton notes of cassis, scorched earth, burning embers, new leather, and violets emerge from the glass, and this beauty is full-bodied, massively concentrated, and structured on the palate, yet it has a b…
James Lawther MW (JLM) — 18/20 · JancisRobinson.com, 20/06/2020 · Drink 2030-2050
84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot. Barrel sample. A graceful wine but with plenty of reserve. Great depth and purity of fruit. Refined cedar and cassis nose. Vibrant palate with a juicy quality to the fruit, plentiful tannins and a texture that is silky and smooth. Fresh, long and persistent. The absolute in harmony.
Neal Martin (NM) — 94–96/100 · Vinous, 16/06/2020 · Drink 2026-2065
The 2019 Leoville Barton is a different kettle of fish compared to its sibling Langoa. It has a complex bouquet of blackberry, sous-bois, tobacco and minerals, much more introverted yet exceedingly complex. The palate is exquisite in terms of balance, laden with intense black fruit laced with orange zest, that citrus element counterbalancing the tannic grip and structure. There is a sense of comp…