2008 Chateau Leoville Poyferre, Saint-Julien, Bottle (750ml)

JA95 Classic, balanced, restrained, everything is knitted down and concentrated, with tannins that have grain and grip and will age for decades. Liqourice, chocolate shavings, cassis, enjoyable wine with edges of gourmet richness that become clear with time in the glass. Clearly one of the best of a vintage that was difficult for much of the season but enjoyed late season sun - something that is clear through the harvest dates, that stretched from October 6 to 18 (exactly the same dates as followed at neighbouring Léoville Las Cases).

DR95 You're getting the aged, mature aromas; cola, toffee, caramel, vanilla and blackcurrant. Slightly subdued on the palate. still knitted down but so well structured, this will age for years to come. The flavours fill the mouth, soft and succulent, velvety tannins have texture and grip with touches of spice lingering at the back - clove and liquorice with dark cocoa powder. A true gourmet wine that you want a delicious plate of food to soften and expand the different aspects going on. Still succulent and mouth watering, the mature notes coming through but still with the concentration and elegance. A great effort from the difficult 2008 vintage. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot.

VM94 The 2008 Léoville-Poyferré has a well-defined, quite precise and energetic bouquet with blackberry, raspberry and pencil lead aromas. This is very focused and engaging. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, graphite and pencil box aromas, harmonious in the mouth with a long and refined finish. What a fabulous Saint Julien from Didier Cuvelier, one that satiates the senses (and then some).