Chateau Leoville Barton

Chateau Leoville Barton

Château Léoville Barton, a Second Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Julien, is one of the finest estates in the appellation. This terroir offers wines that are fleshier and fuller than those of Pauillac, while maintaining legendary Bordeaux finesse. The Cabernets, primarily from old vines, ensure the production of structured, age-worthy wines, well-balanced by Merlot, which brings great roundness and fruit to the blend. The wines of Léoville-Barton are among the most powerful in the appellation, with an almost black color. They are dominated by aromas of forest floor and crème de cassis, with great length and a roasted finish.

Château history

The Irish Barton family acquired Château Langoa and a portion of the great Léoville estate at the beginning of the 18th century. The lack of facilities (cellars, buildings, etc.) on the Léoville Barton portion of the vineyard forced Hugh Barton to vinify at Château Langoa.
Very early on, the differences between the two estates became apparent, despite them sharing the same well-drained gravel terroir resting on a clay-limestone base. It is clear that Langoa is finer and more subtle, while the structure of Léoville allows it to age in a more interesting way.
Anthony Barton took the helm of both châteaux in 1983, an excellent vintage that followed an exceptional one, both allowing the Bartons to elevate the great potential of their two estates. Anthony’s enthusiasm, along with subtle modifications to the winemaking process, soon allowed this château to achieve the flourishing success we know today.
Today…
Lilian Barton Sartorius, Anthony Barton’s daughter, is now at the head of the estate. She is joined by her daughter Mélanie, and both are assisted by François Bréhant, technical director of Léoville Barton and Langoa Barton. Jacques and Eric Boissenot are both at the heart of the technical team and contribute to the rise of this Second Grand Cru Classé.