Château Léoville Barton 2001 - Saint-Julien

Presentation of the domain

Château Léoville Barton, a Second Grand Cru Classé from 1855, embodies the classic Saint-Julien style: straightforwardness, freshness, and longevity. The vineyard, planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon, thrives on deep gravel near the Gironde River. Precise vinification and traditional aging strive for elegance rather than extraction.

Presentation of the vintage

A blend typically dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled vats, followed by gentle extraction, followed by aging for approximately 16–18 months in barrels, some of which are new wood (approximately half). The 2001 style emphasizes the finesse of the tannins and the tension of the Médoc.

Presentation of the vintage

2001 in Médoc: a “classic” and very successful vintage in Saint-Julien, less opulent than 2000 but with a great quality of balance. Lovely phenolic maturity, clear acidity and chiseled tannins promise serene aging and refined tertiary bouquets.

Tasting notes

Tasted at WUAT last June: warm and elegant nose (pecan, blackberry jam, hint of mint). Smooth texture on the palate, perfectly blended tannins; aromas of cedar, sandalwood and fresh tobacco. Slight bitterness on the finish, very nice length. We note a slight lack of aromatic depth today, but real potential for evolution towards complex tertiary aromas.

Bottle condition

Perfect level, healthy color. Labels partially torn; capsule and cork intact. Bottle perfectly preserved. Wine over 10 years old: variations possible depending on storage. Sold as is. We "sacrificed for science" the only bottle in the lot whose label was badly damaged.

Food and wine pairings

Grilled rib-eye steak, short jus.
Roasted pigeon, reduced jus and mushrooms.
Mature Comté or sheep's cheese.

https://www.leoville-barton.com/