Leoville Poyferre 2011

2011 may be less full-bodied, rich in extracts, yet harmonious—a dark, impressively bright, deep ruby colour. Lovely spice on the nose and is plump for the vintage. With a well-rounded, smooth palate, this has a balanced palate with spicy oak and ripe tannins complimenting the soft fruit. A delicious St Julien, 2011 is made from a lower percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon than most Saint Juliens; this is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon with the rest Merlot and a dash of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, aged in 75% new oak. 2011 gives pleasure.

Scores are consistent in the level of 94 to 95 and are high, for example:

RP94. This property has been on a qualitative tear over the last generation and produced one of the most successful wines of 2011. A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, it is broad, rich, medium to full-bodied and dense. In addition, it boasts an inky/purple colour, lots of concentration, silky tannins, and a bigger, richer mouthfeel than any of its St.-Julien peers. The result is one of the stars of the vintage. (Edited)

JS 93. Blackberry and currant aromas with hints of minerals. Whole body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Chewy and reserved. Just the right amount of fruit covering the tannins. Harmony for the vintage. Better in 2017.

WE94. This is a fruity wine that's abundant and gorgeously rich. There is a pepper edge, touches of new wood and a firm, dark core. Acidity and concentration are already integrated. Drink from 2018. (edited)

VertdeVin 95. The nose is elegant and fresh and offers concentration and power. It reveals notes of blackberry, cassis and slight notes of wild raspberry associated with a hint of red berries, very discreet hints of violet, iris and a subtle hint of nutmeg. The mouth is fruity, juicy, fresh, and well-balanced and offers an acceptable acidulous frame, tension, and refined concentration. On the mouth, this wine expresses notes of black cherry, blackberry and slight notes of wild raspberry associated with delicate touches of small red berries, flowers and a discreet hint of tonka bean, wood/toasted and a subtle hint of almond. Tannins are very discreetly tight. Good length.

Andre Larson 94. Very dense colour. The nose is modern and striking with toasted oak, coffee, minerals, dark berries, cassis and a cigar box. Very concentrated palate with plenty of dark fruit, good quality tannin, fresh and vibrant despite its concentration, elegant fruit and a rich, long finish. Excellent potential. (edited)