2011 Chateau Leoville-Poyferre

ABOUT THE WINE
The history of the Leoville estates can be traced back to 1638, when all three Leoville properties were one. After the French Revolution, the estate was split into the Leovilles Barton, Poyferre and Las Cases. Purchased in the early 1900s by the Cuvelier family, Leoville-Poyferre lagged behind the other Leoville properties in terms of quality and renown, until 1979, when Didier Cuvelier took over management of the property. Extensive modernisation and replanting followed, culminating in the hiring of Michel Rolland in 1994. This program of improvement continues, and Leoville-Poyferre is currently one of the most impressive and exciting properties in Saint-Julien.

TASTING NOTES
Another stunning wine from an off-vintage from this ever-improving chateau. Superbly complex aromas of truffle, smoke and black cherry; sweet, soft fruit on the palate, with notes of coffee and earth. Tannic and bright, with beautiful balance. A gutsy, satisfying wine, from a vintage in which many of its peers lack depth on the palate; time in bottle will bring elegance and refinement.

FOOD PAIRING
Complex beef or lamb stews; would pair well with earthy, tomato-based sauces.

FRIARWOOD SAYS
Showing well already in 2018, this is a vintage to drink before 2030.