Reviews
Technical Details
- Blend86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot
- CountryFrance
- RegionBordeaux
- AppellationSt-Julien
- Oak60% new French oak
- Alcohol13%
Chateau Leoville Barton Saint-Julien 2016
This one hits all the sweet spots: first growth-level quality (without the huge price tag), massive, glowing press, great vintage, and of course, a fine price...indeed, as Decanter noted: “This vintage is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, making it comparable to some top Pauillacs.” (Looking at you, Chateau Latour!). A MUST for savvy Bordeaux buyers! Make sure you get enough to hold in the cellar for a few decades!
Most of you will know the history of Barton, and its connection to Leoville Las Cases and Leoville Poyferre in the Saint-Julien appellation. But did you know that Barton has no actual winery? It’s made at sister property Langoa Barton (purchased by the Barton family in 1812), and the Chateau on the label is actually Langoa. More on the history of this esteemed estate here.
The 2016 is ethereally delicious, polished and ultra-fine. Weightless, yet powerful, supple and refined, and soaring with fruit and flowery spices. It’s an instant classic and one we are thrilled to be able to offer today -- while it lasts, that is!
PAIRING IDEAS: It’s braising season here in Napa and we’d recommend a classic for this Saint-Julien: beef bourguignon. This one has a bit of bacon and mushrooms, which adds more layers and goes deliciously well with the slow-cooked, ultra-tender beef.
MUSIC SUGGESTIONS: French rapper MC Solaar is a fine accompaniment: check out the songs “Solaar pleure”, “Caroline” and “Hasta La Vista” to start and see where it takes you!