Chateau Leoville-Poyferre, Saint-Julien 2006

In 1840 the Léoville vineyards were divided into 3 different estates, Léoville Las Cases, Léoville Barton, and Léoville Poyferré. While the vineyards were separated, the buildings remained connected, just as they are today. Léoville Poyferré was purchased in 1920 by the Cuvelier family.

The 1855 Classified Second Growth, Léoville Poyferré 80-hectare vineyards are planted to 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. The terroir is mostly gravel, with some sand, clay, and limestone. Very precise vinification on a parcel by parcel basis takes place in stainless steel vats. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barrels. The wine is aged in an average of 75% new, French oak barrels for 18 months before bottling.

"The 2006 Château Léoville Poyferré has one of the most harmonious and complete bouquets from Saint Julien: very well-defined blackberry, briary and chalky scents, real focus and delivery here. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, ripe tannin matched with well-judged acidity. Like the 2006 Léoville-Barton, it is stubborn and backward, but there is clearly harmony and focus on the finish, the new oak deftly assimilated in the fabric of the wine. This is a lovely wine from Didier Cuvelier. Drink 2020-2040."

92 Points - The Wine Advocate