Tasting Notes
Vinous 86-89
Ruby-red. Aromas of plum, raspberry, coffee and orange peel. Bright and lively, with an enticing hint of woodsmoke complicating the red berry, citrus and herb flavors. Offers considerable immediate appeal, but the high acidity and strong dusting of tannins camouflage the little fruit that’s present. Sexy notes of coffee and mocha emerge on the back end, but this is youthfully clenched right now and, much like Langoa, doesn’t exactly stand out for its fruit concentration. Perhaps it will put on some weight with a couple years in bottle.
Robert Parker 90
The 2013 Léoville-Barton has a more backward bouquet compared to the Langoa-Barton 2013, but there is more perfume here with blackberry, a touch of sea spray and cold limestone. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe tannin, a crisp line of acidity with finesse and elegance on the finish, which is one of the best you’ll find in Saint Julien. This finishes with a flourish after a conservative opening and it should yield a decade of pleasure, maybe more. This is a solid showing in a tough vintage.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2032