Chateau Leoville Barton Vintage 1998

Whilst as a vintage 1998 favours the right bank wines with a higher proportion of merlot Barton has, justifiably, a reputation for consistently great wines.

Typical blend, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc. 75cl bottle. Abv 12.5%

Bottle condition, capsule good, label good, wine level into neck

An amazing bottle that outperformed expectations and held its own next to its ‘89 LB brother at Keens. Still ruby rim, with an intense dark grapiness (a lower note than the ‘89), velvety mouthfeel, good acidity, still very primary with some developing secondary stuff like gravel and leather and a medium finish. Excellent balance and no harsh edges that I thought might have accompanied the ‘88 vintage. Great all around. Wish I had more.