The 2008 Leoville-Poyferre is an exceptional Bordeaux Blend from the renowned St Julien region in Bordeaux, France. With a deep, opaque ruby/purple color, this wine is visually stunning and promises a remarkable tasting experience. The nose is incredibly complex, offering a symphony of aromas that captivate the senses. Ripe red fruits take the forefront, accompanied by notes of cedar, tobacco, and hints of undergrowth. It is a truly "classic" Saint Julien nose that is both elegant and enticing.
On the palate, this wine delivers in every aspect. It showcases good concentration, with smooth tannins that provide a luxurious mouthfeel. The flavors of sweet cassis and black cherry intertwine with nuances of licorice, smoke, and oak, creating a harmonious and multi-dimensional taste profile. The wine is full-bodied and remarkably pure, with a stunning texture that lingers on the palate. It is already drinking well but promises to evolve beautifully with 2-3 years of cellaring. With its impeccable balance and structure, this wine has the potential to age gracefully for 20-25 years.
The 2008 Leoville-Poyferre has received high praise from renowned wine experts. It has been described as an "irresistible success" and a "best buy" for a top-flight St.-Julien by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. Wine Spectator awarded it an impressive score of 91, noting its directness and the persistence of black currant and fig paste flavors. Neal Martin's Wine Journal praises its balance and femininity, surpassing expectations. Vinous describes it as one of the best Saint-Julien's of the vintage, highlighting its vibrant bouquet and medium-bodied palate.
This wine has also been commended for its generous ripeness, concentration, and depth of flavor by Wine Enthusiast. James Suckling is impressed by the fruitiness and velvety tannins, noting its openness and gorgeousness. Decanter finds it totally gorgeous on the nose and praises its sex appeal, black chocolate, menthol, and mint flavors. Jeff Leve emphasizes the wine's cedar, tobacco, forest, licorice, and dark red berry aromatics, as well as its plush but firm tannins and chocolate notes. Jane Anson awards it an impressive score of 95, describing it as classic, balanced, and restrained, with tannins that have grain and grip and will age for decades.
Overall, the 2008 Leoville-Poyferre is a wine of exceptional quality and character. It showcases the best of what Bordeaux, specifically the St Julien region, has to offer. With its complexity, concentration, and long finish, it is a true winner that will undoubtedly impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further development, it promises an unforgettable tasting experience.