2005 Château Léoville Barton Saint-Julien 750 ml

Bordeaux’s 2005 vintage is mythical, described by James Suckling as “the world’s richest vintage” for many reasons. The 2005 Château Léoville Barton is a 12-year-old classic “Super Second” growth Claret that has been perfectly-aged in the pristine cellars of the Château in Saint-Julien. Owner Anthony Barton’s classically styled offerings consistently impress, and the 2005 was no exception — this is a rare opportunity marked by provenance and the chance to enjoy this beautiful wine now, or in the coming three decades.

Wine Spectator called his 2005 vintage “racy and beautiful,” and rated it 96 points, matched by another 96 points from James Suckling. Both praised its power, elegance, and immense future potential. Anthony’s philosophy is that wine should be drunk, not stockpiled for speculation, and he stubbornly keeps his prices reasonable despite its superiority and the dizzying ascent of the other classified growths.

Spectator called the 2005 vintage a “triumph.” Thanks to semi-drought conditions, the growing season was sunny and ideal, producing small, thick-skinned berries exploding with color, lush fruit, and fully ripened tannins. Cool summer nights kept acidity higher than usual, which helped maintain the wine’s exquisite balance and freshness.

Anthony’s wines practically clamor for a decade or two of careful delay. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate wrote that the 2005 Château Léoville Barton has “great persistence here - a Saint Julien from the top drawer that will give as much pleasure to you as your kids (once they reach drinking age of course).”