Wine Advocate
byRobert Parkerthe4/30/1997
On three separate occasions, Leoville-Barton's 1996 proved to be spectacular, not surprising in view of the fact that this effort is from a chateau that has produced nothing less than top-flight wines for more than a decade. The 1996 possesses explosive richness, undoubtedly from a higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in the final blend. The color is a dense, opaque purple/black. The wine gives up sweet cassis fruit, with pain grillee notes. The attack is fabulous, with layers of structured, super-concentrated, sweet fruit making a massive impression. This is a powerful, full-bodied, layered, multi-dimensional wine that will require patience. The 1996 will need 12-15 years to reach full maturity, yet it will last for more than three decades. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030