Chateau Leoville Barton Facts

Château Leoville-Barton bears the name of one of the most prominent families in the Bordeaux wine trade. Don't be fooled by their Irish roots, the Bartons know wine, and have stamped their name all over the Medoc, from Château Langoa-Barton to Leoville-Barton to Barton & Guestier, their merchant business. In fact, Château Leoville-Barton has the Bordeaux record for continuous ownership by a single family -- 180 years!

The family secret, however, is that there is no Château at Leoville-Barton at all. Grapes from the 47 hectare vineyard are vinified in the cuvee of neighboring Château Langoa-Barton. Both are managed by Anthony Barton, the most recent in a long line of Irishmen who have directed the family business.

Varietals Produced at Chateau Leoville Barton

The allotment of the vineyard, which is down to 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc, reflects the Barton's vinous ideology: traditionally styled, Cabernet dominated St. Juliens. The eponymous Grand Vin is rich, and densely concentrated with compelling fruit complexity, enticing inner-mouth perfume and suave tannins. Though capable of extended aging, it's is rarely hard in its youth.