Château Léoville Barton: Old-World Bordeaux with Modern Charm
Located along the Gironde River in Bordeaux, Château Léoville Barton epitomizes the elegance and ageability of the wines of the region as well as a versatility that appeals to new markets. Owned and operated by the Barton family since the 19th century, the 116-acre vineyard grows primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with a small portion of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and produces two distinct reds: its eponymous Château Léoville Barton Grand Vin and La Réserve de Léoville Barton. In 2019, Wine Spectator proclaimed Château Léoville Barton THE number one Bordeaux blend out of nearly 600 wines from the same vintage and region. But what has truly distinguished Château Léoville Barton over the years is its focus on terroir and tradition.
The Barton family's passion for wine is reflected in the elegance and consistency of Château Léoville Barton. The estate was classified as a 2nd Grand Cru Classé in 1855 and lies within the iconic terroir of Saint-Julien in the Médoc. Here, tradition is sowed in the very soil itself; with roots in the region that date back to 1725, three generations of the Barton wine dynasty now carry on the family’s 10th generation winemaking tradition: Anthony Barton; his daughter, Lilian Barton-Sartorius; and her children, Damien and Mélanie. Under the tutelage of Anthony, who is now in his late eighties, Château Léoville Barton’s Old World approaches, such as using large wooden vats for vinifications, have found charm in the modern world.
A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot, the 2016 Château Léoville Barton Grand Vin brims with pastis-soaked plum, blackberry, black currant and blueberry paste flavors, all carried by a perfectly integrated brambly spine. Tar and ganache notes give the finish an extra kick while everything stays within the mouthwatering roasted apple wood frame. Lauded by Wine Spectator as both regal and rambunctious, the 2016 vintage is “St.-Julien to a T.”
DONOR:
Anonymous
INCLUDES:
(6) 750ml bottles of 2016 Château Léoville Barton Bordeaux Blend
TERMS & RESTRICTIONS: No restrictions. To arrange for wine delivery or pick-up, please contact Wine Auction Director Peter Burke at pburke@svmoa.org.
