Château Léoville Barton 1996 – Saint-Julien Bordeaux

Château Léoville Barton 1996 is the epitome of classic left bank Bordeaux – a wine that combines authority, elegance and impressive ageability. For wine lovers, collectors and connoisseurs, this vintage is a textbook example of why Saint-Julien is one of Médoc’s most prestigious appellations.

As 2. Grand Cru Classé in the 1855 classification, Léoville Barton stands shoulder to shoulder with Bordeaux’s biggest names. The 1996 vintage is known for its exceptional structure, precision and freshness, and this is where the house shows its classic, uncompromising style: sleek, concentrated and with a depth that only increases with time.

This is a wine that rewards patience – but already delivers a great and authentic Bordeaux experience if given air and respect in the glass.

Tasting experience – classic Saint-Julien in top form

In the glass, the wine is dark and concentrated with ripe nuances that speak of its age and quality. The nose opens slowly and complexly with blackcurrant, black cherry and graphite, followed by cedar, tobacco, leather and dried herbs.

The palate is structured and elegant with ripe, finely polished tannins. The Cabernet Sauvignon dominance provides backbone, minerality and precision, while the fruit is still vibrant and focused. The finish is long, dry and lean – characterized by classic Médoc minerality and a cool, aristocratic style.

Serving: Decant for 1-2 hours and serve at 17-18°C.
Food Match: Ideal with beef tenderloin, game, rack of lamb or classic French dishes.

Vineyards & grape composition

The vineyards cover approximately 50 hectares in the heart of Saint-Julien, just a few kilometers from the Gironde River. The soil consists of deep gravel deposits with clay in the subsoil – perfect for Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrives in well-drained soil with stable heat.

The grapes in the 1996 vintage are composed of:

• 77% Cabernet Sauvignon
• 20% Merlot
• 3% Cabernet Franc

The style is classic and focused – more structured and masculine than many modern Saint-Julien wines. A wine made for ageing and slow enjoyment.

History of the house – Léoville Barton

Château Léoville Barton is one of the most traditional châteaux in Bordeaux. Owned by the Irish Barton family since the early 1820s, it is today the oldest family-owned property in the entire 1855 classification.

The chateau’s history dates back to the 18th century, but it was the Barton family that shaped Léoville Barton into an icon of classic Médoc style. Today, the house is run by Lilian Barton, the 9th generation of the family, who continues the philosophy of minimal intervention, respect for terroir and uncompromising quality.

Léoville Barton is known for its honest style: no over-extraction, no fashion wines – just classic Bordeaux with backbone, balance and longevity. That’s why the house wines are among the most sought-after by collectors around the world.

Product information

• Type: Red wine
• Region: Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France
• Producer: Château Léoville Barton
• Vintage: 1996
• Quantity: 75 cl.
• Alcohol content: 12.5%
• Contains: Sulfites