Grilled spice notes dominate on the opening beats of this wine, and the tannins remain very much in play, not constricting but playing a big role in the mouthfeel. There is a lovely classicisim to this vintage at Poyferré, with raspberry fruits, touches of hedgrow and bracken giving a wash of acidity, some earthy notes and again the balance that you look for in a classified St Julien. 80% new oak.

This is full of vigour and life – an enjoyable wine from a challenging year. At this stage in its development the cassis notes are merging with tannins, which are starting to soften but haven't forgotten what they're here for. Good balance, with a lovely fresh edge at the close of play as it rises rather than falls, and the menthol notes are very attractive. A slight tightness on the finish tells you that the fruit is a heartbeat away from full ripeness, and although this will age well it lacks some characteristic generosity. The rest of the blend is made up of Petit Verdot.

Secondary notes of tobacco, earth, wet leaf and olive, which add to the cassis, blackberry and red fruits. The tannins are firm, ending in a finish of blackberries and earth . This is showing better than the last time I tasted it. You can drink this now, or age it for a few years, as it could improve. 90 Points Read more at:https://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/wine-tasting-note/?vintage=2002&wine=Chateau%20Leoville%20Poyferre

This wine has completely shut down since it's been bottled but exhibits a saturated ruby/purple color high levels of tannin and sweet noble black currant fruit intermixed with some licorice espresso roast and pain grille. In the vernacular it is closed for business with medium to full body high levels of tannin and good acidity in a more structured classic style than the 2003. This is a big traditionally made wine to forget for a good 5-8 years. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020.

The 2002 Léoville-Poyferré has an open nose with dusky black fruit, melted tar and a touch of pencil box; more fruit here compared to other Saint-Julien wines. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rustic tannins, a touch of blackberry pastilles, tobacco, allspice and light graphite notes towards the Japanese nori-tinged finish. Probably reaching its peak now, but with the substance to offer another 12 to 15 years drinking pleasure. Tasted at the château. -- Neal Martin