Elongated tannins, a slow build through the palate, showing the finessed side of Barton compared to the monumental 2016. Plenty of deep brambled cassis and blackberry fruits, a crunch of pomegranate, crayon and graphite, and a juicy finish that is standing of the edge of its drinking window, and will deliver for the next decade. Tasted separately to the rest of the horizontal. 60% new oak. 95 points

The 2015 Leoville Barton has one of the richest bouquets in the appellation, boasting almost ostentatious blackberry, raspberry and bilberry scents on the nose, suffused with crushed limestone and light graphite aromas. The medium-bodied palate is taut and crisp, delivering a fine bead of acidity and freshness from beginning to end. Mainly black fruit here, with suggestions of leather and mocha toward the finish. Superb. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting. 95 points