Still owned and operated by the Barton family, Château Léoville Barton's legacy began in 1722 when Thomas Barton left his homeland of Ireland for Bordeaux. Classified as a 2nd growth, it is one of only two Bordeaux estates (from the 1855 classification) that belongs in the hands of the original family. Not to be confused with fellow 2nd growth powerhouses, Léoville Poyferré and Léoville Las Cases, the wines of Barton are more traditional. In their youth they are tannic, austere over velvety, and built for the long haul. As 21st century Bordeaux becomes a race for who can build it bigger, better, and shinier, Léoville Barton separates itself from the pack as a timeless classic. 

I had the opportunity to taste the 1998 vintage recently at a fundraiser for Miami-Dade County schools. The cork was impeccable, uniformly stamped with wine on the bottom, and showing no signs of leakage. Upon the first smell I was hooked, as if I had unlocked a treasure chest of old French photographs and letters. The fruit condition was faded but still alive with mulberry purples and crimson reds. Then, a rush of nostalgia: crushed leaves, worn leather, gun-smoke, and crumbles of sweet graphite unfolded after a soft swirl. A prime example of why we should think beyond points and ratings, Léoville Barton 1998 slips under-the-radar in the 90-93 range. With more than twenty-three years on its cork, and another five to go, Barton continues to be one of the greatest values in Bordeaux, and, to me, that’s worth 100. ~Allegra A