2016 Leoville Barton
By Chateau Leoville Barton
2016 Leoville Barton from Chateau Leoville Barton, St-Julien, Bordeaux, France
In the undulating vineyards of St-Julien, there lies the quintessence of balance and structure within the Bordeaux lexicon, namely the 2016 Leoville Barton from Chateau Leoville Barton. This vintage is a compelling ambassador of the estate's storied legacy, heralding from a year that many contend mirrors the extraordinary nature of 2005 and 2010.
The Harmony of Climatic Finesse
The 2016 vintage was characterised by a year of climatic paradoxes, with a notably damp start offset by a parched and sweltering summer, culminating in a harvest that delivered a yield bountiful in quality. The benevolent September weather coaxed the grapes into splendid maturity, which translates into the bottle as a harmonious dialogue between potency and poise. At its core, 2016 Leoville Barton articulates the terroir with deft precision—owing much to the rigorous selection process at Chateau Leoville Barton.
An Investment Worthy Of Your Cellar
For connoisseurs and investors alike, this incarnation bids fair to be one of the most investable propositions from St-Julien. Alongside its cellaring potential, it shows immediate charm; the palate is greeted with layers of cassis and black cherry fruit interlaced with notes of cigar box and graphite—a benchmark for fine claret. Tannins are exceedingly well-judged, imparting gravitas without overshadowing the wine’s intricate detail.
The resolve and depth achieved in this 2016 bottle mirror not only the best of what St-Julien can offer but also demonstrate Chateau Leoville Barton’s unwavering commitment to crafting wines that resonate with discerning palates and savvy investors who seek pedigree and longevity.
In essence, acquiring possession of the 2016 Leoville Barton secures not only a piece of vinous artistry but an asset that promises to evolve superbly, reaching crescendos that few other vintages can parallel. It's a wine that stands out distinctly against a backdrop of already impressive Bordeaux releases, underscored by credentials that entwine pleasure with prudence for those who choose to weave this remarkable vintage into their investment portfolio.
Market price (USD)
$1,150.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
52.78
Scores and tasting notes
This packs some serious punch and drive, with a terrific core of blueberry, açai and plum reduction notes, backed by waves of graphite and roasted apple wood. Has the pleasantly chewy feel typical of St.-Julien, along with an extra-racy graphite edge.—J.M.
Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator (James Molesworth)
Tight and chewy with a solid tannin structure and depth of fruit. Full body and lots of depth and texture. A Barton with lots happening already. Develops beautifully on the palate. Should be better than the 2015.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2017
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Leoville Barton delivers a superstar nose of crème de cassis, plum preserves and blueberry compote with suggestions of fragrant earth, unsmoked cigars, licorice and cedar chest. Medium to full-bodied, rich and seductive with firm yet velvety tannins, it has a decadently rich finish.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 30 November 2018
Dark blackish purple. Less obviously aromatic than Langoa. Tea-leaf notes. Round texture with gloriously ripe tannins. Really a standout Barton. So unusually supple! Yet with masses of tannins underneath. This will surely be one of the vintage's longer-living wines. Glorious texture and flavour. Utterly minerally dry, but not drying. Very good freshness – much fresher than many of its peers. Real energy.
Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com