Chateau Leoville Barton 2017 2er Grand Cru Classe (NM93-95 / JS95) Neal Martin's Says: The 2017 Léoville Barton has a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon this year at 93%, the remainder is Merlot. It has a perfumed and pure bouquet that demonstrates a little more cohesion and refinement than some of its Saint-Julien peers. Blackberry and touches of bilberry fruit, cedar and crushed stone – this is a knockout nose with bags of potential. The palate is medium-bodied with filigree tannin, perfectly pitched acidity and beautifully integrated oak. 2022 - 2045. (May 2018)
James Suckling's Says: The purity of cabernet sauvignon really comes through here with currants, blackberries and stones. Perfumed, too. Medium to full body. Very fine, polished tannins and a fresh, fruity finish. This shows a compact palate with a polished, creamy finish. Much higher percentage of cabernet than is usual. Drink after 2023. (Jan 2020)
Chateau Branaire-Ducru 2017 4er Grand Cru Classe (NM91 / JS92-93) Neal Martin's Says: The 2017 Branaire Ducru has a fresh bouquet with lifted brambly red fruit mixed with cedar and woodland aromas - classic Saint-Julien. The oak here is nicely integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannins, mainly red fruit mixed with leather and cedar. It needs just a little more substance on the mid-palate and it tapers in towards the finish. But it does feel fresh and vigorous, providing pleasant drinking over the next couple of decades. (Feb 2020)
James Suckling's Says: This is very tight and focused with a precise depth of blackberry and blueberry fruit. Full body, melted tannins and a fresh and vivid finish. Shows a compacted style. (Apr 2018)
