Ch. Leoville Barton 2nd Growth Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien, 2009 Red Wine, 75cLBy Winebuyers

One of the longest family-owned classified vineyards, this Leoville has been in the Barton family since 1826. This is also the smallest portion of the Leoville estate. Although the family takes a traditional approach to the wine, subtle changes have seen an increased intensity and power – while remaining the most elegant of the three Leovilles – in the last three decades, since Anthony Barton took over the running of the estate from his uncle Ronald and fully renovated cellars and winemaking facilities. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the 51 hectares of vineyards with around 20% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. Unlike most Bordeaux estates, there is no chateau, and the wine is made at sister property Langoa Barton. The vineyards for Leoville Barton are located north of Langoa Barton. The wine matures in around 50% new French oak barrels for on average 20 months. This is today one of the most exciting and charming 2nd Growth chateaux in Saint-Julien, with a long history of family ownership and a traditional approach to winemaking. The wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, aged in a combination of new and used oak barrels. The result is a complex and elegant wine with a rich, full-bodied flavor profile.