Chateau Léoville Barton 2000

Winery Description

The 50 hectares of Léoville and 18 hectares of Langoa, planted in gravelly soil with a clay sub-soil, include large proportions of old vines in order to obtain the best possible quality.  The grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc are the same on both properties as are the methods of vinification.

The wines are typical of the Saint-Julien area, well balanced wines with subtle bouquets and flavors; the emphasis being on elegance and finesse rather than on power and extraction.  This is achieved by picking the grapes at the maximum ripeness and allowing the fermentation to take place at a controlled temperature of 30/32°C. Although excessive extraction is avoided by removing the juice from the skins at the appropriate time, the wines have a lovely deep colour, excllent structure and sufficient tannins to ensure good ageing potential.

Although the modern wine making methods permit wine to be drunk at a younger age than in the past, the great vintages may easily be kept for 25 to 30 years and more.  It is important to remember that the lighter years drunk at the right time can give more pleasure than the great years drunk before reaching maturity.

Lady Langoa is Château Langoa and Léoville Barton's second label.  The wine is named after Hugh Barton's daughter; Hugh originally purchased Château Langoa in 1821 and founded the Barton family's role at this chateaux.