It is no secret that Anthony Barton's efforts over the last decade at his St.-Julien estate Leoville-Barton is resulting in terrific wines at still reasonable prices. This estate has been extremely successful in recent vintages. An impressive serious classic Bordeaux for collectors who are willing to forget about it for at least a decade this well-endowed offering is a 30-year wine. The dense murky purple color closed aromatics massive flavor richness and high tannin recall the old non-compromised beefy blockbuster Medocs produced thirty years ago. However this wine possesses sweeter tannin and was made under far more sanitary conditions. It is a classic but patience is definitely required. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.</P>

The 1994 Léoville Barton has a similar bouquet to the Langoa Barton. A touch of peppermint complements the simple but effective black fruit. But maybe the Langoa 1994 has more panache? The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins. Well-balanced, old-school, tobacco-laced red fruit partner with a harmonious, tertiary finish. Lovely. Tasted at the château. -- Neal Martin