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.

Full of dark fruits, the Montrose 1999 vintage exhibits a nose of black fruits,  pencil lead and smoke and a powerful dry finish.