AJ | Dense, saturated black-red; one of the most deeply coloured wines in the tasting. A sense of warm fruit rather than cool fruit here, with ample spice-and-resin backing, and some incense, too. Very complete aromatics. In 2021 terms, this is truly opulent and ample. Honestly, if you follow the weather pattern of 2021, it is hard to believe that a wine like this -- with all its soft density of fruit and smooth, untroubled opulence -- could be made in this year. It won't have the drive and tenacity of a great vintage, but if you love the tenderness and generosity and affability of Leoville-Poyferre (as I certainly do) this is a triumph. Wonderful tannins; boisterous acidity ... whatever the site had to offer, the team found it. Drink Dates: 2027 - 2037. 93
SF | Inky yet bright, lustrous yet profound. The nose married spice, dark fruit and hints of white chocolate, spice and white pepper. St Julien charm and a lyrical lift underline just what can be achieved in a tricky vintage; there is a discrete linearity in play here but no lack of 'gravitas' and, for that matter , no lack of potential to be kept. Drink Dates: 2029 - 2041. 92