2009 Léoville-Barton, St-Julien

This stands out above its sibling estate by some distance in this vintage - in fact I would say that the closing of the gap between Léoville and Langoa has been the biggest marker of the past decade for them. This is a gorgeous 2009 - rich, measured and slow-burning, full of rippling tannins and good acidity and freshness. The gorgeous, subtle smoke notes aligns with St-Julien freshness and elegance, with a punch of power. Great stuff. (JA)

The 2009 Château Léoville Barton is a classic beauty from this estate that actually reminds me slightly of the 1990. Revealing a deep ruby/plum hue as well as brilliant aromatics of ripe currants, cedar pencils, darker, herbal, tobacco-like nuances, and some chocolaty, spice box-like nuances, it offers full-bodied richness on the palate, with a layered, deep, concentrated, yet classic Barton focused mouthfeel, sweet tannins, and outstanding length. This is just pure Bordeaux goodness that's on the early slopes of its prime drinking window. This brilliant, powerful, textured Saint-Julien has another 20-30 years of longevity ahead of it.