2018 Château Léoville-Barton, 2ème Cru Classé Saint-Julien

This is very much a family property, and Mélanie Barton gave us some background to the estate’s success this year : “Treating against disease between wet periods and showers was certainly difficult, but fortunately we had tractor drivers who were happy to work at weekends, so we didn’t have crop losses due to mildew damage.” The outstanding wine is made from 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot. It shows impressive ruby-purple hue, gorgeously bright fruitiness on the nose, with power, intensity and length on the palate. This has magnificent richness and harmony, great potential (for drinking 2026-2050+).