Château Léoville Barton, 2ème Cru Classé, St Julien, 2010
Produced from 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, the 2010 Leoville Barton possesses considerably more density and intensity (than Langoa). This is a spectacular effort; massively concentrated with huge extract and tannins, yet there is exquisite balance here. Everything is in perfect harmony - initially quite reserved and tight knit with hints of cut flowers and a melting pot of dark berries and minerals. This is very muscular and correct with wave after wave of cassis and cherry stone fruit; a composed and very classy, large-scaled Leoville Barton with inspiring tannins and lots of backbone.
critic reviews
Softened plum in colour, still very closed on the aromatics but there's no hiding the quality underneath, chocolate drops, blueberry, damson, confident architecture packed with chalky tannins. A big vintage that needs more time. 60% new oak barrels for ageing, harvest 28 September to 8 October.
Two bottles of the 2010 Léoville Barton were opened, the first showing just a little oxidation, the second thankfully fresher although maybe not quite as representative as I would like. Black fruit, earthy scents and touches of undergrowth come through. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, plenty of graphite infused black fruit, but it feels a little blunt on the finish and does not quite convey the length of its peers. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.
The 2010 Leoville Barton is deep garnet in color, and the nose is a little tired, with notes of stewed plums and dried cherries over hints of balsamic, tobacco, spice box and fried herbs. The medium to full-bodied palate has a solid backbone of firm, chewy tannins and plenty of freshness supporting the mature fruit, finishing spicy.