2008 - Leoville Poyferre, Saint-Julien

Classic, balanced, restrained, everything is knitted down and concentrated, with tannins that have grain and grip and will age for decades. Liqourice, chocolate shavings, cassis, enjoyable wine with edges of gourmet richness that become clear with time in the glass. Clearly one of the best of a vintage that was difficult for much of the season but enjoyed late season sun - something that is clear through the harvest dates, that stretched from October 6 to 18 (exactly the same dates as followed at neighbouring Léoville Las Cases). 80% new oak.

A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot, the 2008 Leoville Poyferre has a deep garnet-brick color. It comes tearing out of the glass with ready-to-go notes of blackcurrant cordial, stewed plums, and Indian spices, leading to touches of dried sage, cigar box, and mossy tree bark. The medium-bodied palate displays a sweet spot between evolved/tertiary characteristics and plenty of vibrant black fruits, framed by lightly chewy tannins and bags of freshness, finishing on a lingering mineral note.

The 2008 Léoville-Poyferré has long been one of the best Saint-Julien’s of the vintage. It has a vibrant, exquisitely delineated bouquet with precise black fruit, cedar and hints of liquorice that unfold seductively. The oak here is beautifully enmeshed. The palate is medium-bodied with melted tannins, a fine bead of acidity, very harmonious with pure red fruit laced with allspice, clove and bay leaf towards the finish. A brilliant wine from former winemaker Didier Cuvelier. Tasted at the Léoville-Poyferré vertical at the château with Sara Lecompte Cuvelier.