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Léoville Barton 1989

RegionBordeaux
Subregion France > Bordeaux > Left Bank > St Julien
ColourRed
TypeStill
Grape VarietyCabernet Sauvignon/Merlot

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Label

Tasting Notes

Like several other 1988s, this wine's rather hard, unyielding, early style has given way to a classically structured Bordeaux with a very youthful color (younger than the 1989), deep, earthy, cassis fruit intermixed with wood, smoke, mineral, and a hint of roasted herbs. The wine has excellent depth, medium to full body, moderate tannin, and a very youthful, vigorous feel. It is approachable, but seems destined to outlive the more renowned and expensive 1989. Somewhat of a sleeper of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2018. Last tasted, 9/01.

89
Robert Parker, Bordeaux Book (4), December 2003

The bouquet does not quite have the vivacity, the chutzpah of the 1990 Barton, a little more introverted with notes of cigar box, earth, wet sand and chestnut. The palate is medium-bodied, quite elegant, refined and harmonious with a firm mid-palate. Cedar, sandalwood and dried herbs. Unlike the 1990, the 1989 has a crescendo of flavours towards the finish that demonstrates great structure and persistency. Austere, conservative but classy, there is a chance that the '89 may outlast the '90. Drink 2009 -2025.

91+
Neal Martin, RobertParker.com, November 2009
90
Robert Parker, Bordeaux Book (3), November 1998
90
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (109), February 1997
Please note that these tasting notes/scores are not intended to be exhaustive and in some cases they may not be the most recently published figures. However, we always do our best to add latest scores and reviews when these come to our attention. We advise customers who wish to purchase wines based simply on critical reviews to carry out further research into the latest reports.