2006 Chateau Leoville-Barton

ABOUT THE WINE
Chateau Leoville Barton is the smallest portion of the great Leoville estate and has been owned by the Barton family since 1826. There is no chateau and the wine is made at Langoa Barton. Leoville Barton's 48 hectares of vineyards are located in the east of the St-Julien wine appellation and lie on gravelly-clay soils. Since Anthony Barton took over the reins from his Uncle Ronald in the mid-80s, quality has soared at Leoville Barton and the wine has gone from being a solid mid-league performing 2eme Cru Classe to one of the most exciting and scintillating wines in St. Julien. The 2006 growing season was off to a good start in June and July, benefiting from a hot and dry summer. Temperatures began to cool down in August, followed by more heat in September, then rain.

TASTING NOTES
Stunning and powerful wine with a complex, perfumed nose of blackberry, cedar and spice. The palate is medium-bodied with concentrated, chewy tannins and flavours of wild blackberry, cassis and leather. There is a touch of mineral tension, followed by an elegant but powerful long finish. Another superb expression from Leoville Barton that will benefit from cellaring for 5 years.