Leoville Barton (St. Julien) 2011

92 pts Wine Spectator

This has some slightly rugged grip, with a prominent charcoal frame. Delivers ample flesh at the core, offering plum cake, currant preserves and smoldering tobacco leaf notes, offset by a tangy hint of anise. Should settle in well enough after modest cellaring. Best from 2016 through 2026. 12,500 cases made.

91 pts Vinous

Bright, deep red-ruby. Sexy aromas of raspberry preserves, cola, incense and violet. Palate-staining red and dark fruit flavors show very good depth, with tangy acidity providing lift. Silky tannins add shape and grip to the very pure, long finish, which offers lingering notes of cream soda and violet. Though bigger and deeper than the Langoa Barton, it is not currently displaying that wine's great charm.

90 pts James Suckling

This is impressive, with blueberry and blackberry character, plus hints of licorice. Full body with silky tannins and a chewy finish. Almost smoky. Needs at least three to four years of bottle age. Second wine of Léoville-Barton.

Wine Advocate

Firmly structured, dense and medium-bodied with moderate tannin, this austere and backward yet well-endowed 2011 needs 5-7 years of bottle age. Whether the fruit holds up to the tannic structure remains to be seen, but the dark ruby/purple color, purity and impressive depth as well as concentration augur well for future positive development. Forget this 2011 for 5-6 years and drink it over the following 15-20.