1999 Red Bordeaux

Ch. Léoville Poyferré was always the perennially underestimated property of the three Léovilles, so we are delighted to see that it is now finally getting the credit it deserves. Quality has soared since Didier Cuvelier took control in the 1970s and in the last 20 years Didier, with the assistance of the renowned Michel Rolland, has turned this into one of St Julien's finest estates. 1999 was regarded as a lighter-style approachable vintage and all wines are fully mature now. Mature bouquet of soft, berry fruits and tobacco leaf, lush texture on the palate, ripe and round. Ch. Léoville-Poyferré's is one of the best wines of the vintage, hence our decision to buy more stock long after the initial release. Way above the norm for 1999.

Judging this property by its location alone, it should really be one of the most succesful wines of St Julien, but it has underperformed for years. Fortunately in recent years, there have been noticeable improvements and the 1999 is an admirable effort - a property to watch.

One of the most loved clarets of all and one that goes from strength to strength. Balance is the key feature of this with along with wonderful refinement and length. A very fine 1999 and one that will age gracefully as well.

'This dense ruby/purple-colored 1999 is a modern day clone of this estate's wonderful 1962. The 1999 reveals forward, open-knit notes of creme de cassis and earth. It is fleshy, medium to full-bodied, and succulent, with supple tannin, excellent balance, as well as a long, pure, ripe finish. This seductive effort will drink well for 12-15 years, possibly longer!' Drink 2002 -2017.
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate, Apr. 2002

Good colour. Very youthful on the nose. Dense and raw. On the palate splendidly concentrated with no undue density. Excellent grip and a fine intensity. Lots of fruit. Lots of concentration. Lots of dimension. This is excellent. Drink from 2008. (Clive Coates - June 2000)

A distinctively oriental tang on the nose is followed by plenty of sweet, plump, ripe fruit. This is flashy, upfront and quite delicious.

Radiant deep red colour. The perfumed nose is entwined with aromas of smoky toast. On the palate there are truffles and sweet fruit combined with very soft and silky tannins. A wine that exhibits very good terroir characterstics.