In Bond Fine Wine. 2021 Château Leoville Barton, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France. Second Growth • Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 94/100 (NM). Drinking window: 2026–2050. 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…
William Kelley (WK) — 93–95/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 29/04/2022
A terrific success, the 2021 Leoville Barton unwinds in the glass with aromas of blackcurrant, wild berries and plums mingled with hints of pencil shavings, loamy soil and cigar wrapper. Medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless, it's concentrated and tensile, with beautifully refined tannins, lively acids and all the class that an elevated percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon growing in deep gravel c…
Antonio Galloni (AG) — 94/100 · Inside Bordeaux, 27/02/2024 · Drink 2028-2051
The 2021 Leoville-Barton is a gorgeous, classically built Saint-Julien. Graphite, leather, blue-toned fruit, spice, tobacco, licorice and lavender are immediately alluring. Medium in body and vibrant, the 2021 exudes finesse from start to finish. It is very much on the restrained side, with all the elements impeccably balanced. I would give this a few years in the cellar. It really blossoms with…
Neal Martin (NM) — 94/100 · Vinous, 22/02/2024 · Drink 2026-2050
The 2011 Leoville-Barton marks the first vintage with Cabernet Franc in the blend, which Damien Barton explained was thanks to the smaller vats recently installed in the cuverie. There is a sense of airiness on the nose, very focused and well-defined with blackberry, bilberry and crushed stone aromas. The palate is medium-bodied and sappy with ripe black fruit and a fine bead of acidity, showing…