A magnificently solid wine initially severe. At this young stage the tannins dominate in a wine that also reveals a full fruit salad bowl of black fruits. Very dense concentrated this is a wine that's even better than the legendary 2005. The structure tells of its extraordinary aging potential: don't even attempt to drink this for 10 years. - R.V.

Aromas of pure blackberries and violets follow through to a full body, with super velvety tannins and a delicious balance of sweet fruit, light vanilla and nuts. Really savory and beautiful. Superb wine. I like this better than 2009. Try in 2018.

Softened plum in colour, still very closed on the aromatics but there's no hiding the quality underneath, chocolate drops, blueberry, damson, confident architecture packed with chalky tannins. A big vintage that needs more time. 60% new oak barrels for ageing, harvest 28 September to 8 October.

Clearly one of the all-time greats from this château (it actually reminds me a little of the 1990), the 2010 Château Léoville Barton reveals a still youthful ruby hue as well as a textbook Barton bouquet of pure dark currants, savory tobacco, saddle leather, graphite, and subtle spicy oak. It's beautifully concentrated, with a full-bodied, deep, layered mouthfeel, still present yet sweet, polished tannins, and a regal, focused style that is quintessential Léoville Barton. This brilliant, majestic wine should be sought out by wine lovers. It clearly offers pleasure today yet has probably not quite reached its prime drinking window. Give bottles another 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 30+. Bravo to the team at this terrific chateau.

73% cabernet sauvignon 17% merlot 10% cabernet franc. 60% new oak. An expressive perfumed nose offers black cherry currant and cassis with secondary notes of violet cedar and a touch of wild spice. Broad and expansive on the palate the dark fruits are intense without being overwrought and the tannins are prominent yet remarkably silky for such a youthful Bordeaux. With all the elements balanced beautifully this has the potential for true greatness. Enjoy over the next 30 years.

Darkly perfumed nose: blackcurrants and bramble fruits with subtle wood spice and cinnamon. Juicy, forward and very vibrant. Acidity to the fore, with powdery tannins and fresh strawberry, creamy raspberry and red cherry fruit. Chalky, grippy and lively; still feels youthful. Nice balance of tension and joy. Very good.

Takes a modern approach, with dark mocha- and espresso-infused toast leading the way, featuring an extra ganache kicker before dark currant preserves and roasted plum fruit strides in. Dense and extracted through the polished finish, this features a charcoal spine that gives rise to extra blueberry and pastis notes. Should cruise in the cellar. Best from 2018 through 2038. – JM

Crisp, crunchy, vibrantly styled, classic Bordeaux that is concentrated, full-bodied, bright, and lifted, with a core of sweet red fruits, spice, and cigar box aromatics. Still youthful, if you prefer more fruit with crunch, you can enjoy this now. Otherwise, give it a few more years as this is a candidate for long-term aging. Drink from 2023-2060.