1990 Château Léoville Poyferré

Warm, dry conditions through summer created perfect ripening conditions on Poyferré's deep gravel terraces. The estate's mature Cabernet vines thrived in the heat, producing concentrated fruit with perfect phenolic ripeness. The wine displays Saint-Julien refinement with cassis, tobacco, and crushed stones wrapped in plush, ripe tannins.

Early warmth and ideal flowering conditions set a remarkable tone across the estate's prime gravel slopes facing the Gironde. The property's river proximity moderated intense summer heat, allowing steady ripening in the old-vine Cabernet parcels. The wine shows black fruit density, gravelly minerality, and the refined power that marks Poyferré's distinct Saint-Julien style.

At Léoville Poyferré, the 2010 growing season provided ideal conditions with perfect weather during flowering, followed by a warm, dry summer with cool nights. The estate's mix of gravel and clay soils proved crucial during the dry spell, while September's perfect conditions allowed for unhurried harvesting of each parcel at optimal ripeness. This combination produced what many consider the estate's finest modern vintage.

The 2018 growing season at Léoville Poyferre began with a rainy spring, followed by a long, hot, and dry summer, creating conditions for optimal ripeness. Despite early challenges with mildew pressure, meticulous vineyard management and ideal weather during harvest resulted in grapes of exceptional quality. The 2018 Léoville Poyferre reflects this unique vintage, combining intensity with finesse in a truly remarkable expression. Photo Credit: Château Léoville Poyferre

The 2019 growing season at Léoville Poyferré saw a mix of challenges and favorable conditions, with a rainy spring followed by a hot, dry summer. Timely rains in September refreshed the vines, allowing for optimal ripening and harvest under ideal conditions. The resulting wine showcases the vintage's hallmark freshness and concentration, with Léoville Poyferré's signature power and finesse. Photo Credit: Château Léoville Poyferré

The early-starting 2020 season at Poyferré saw warm conditions that required careful canopy management and irrigation control. The estate's varied soil composition, particularly the clay subsoils, proved essential in maintaining freshness during the summer heat. Early morning harvesting and gentle extraction preserved aromatic complexity while capturing the vintage's natural concentration.

At Poyferré, the team faced multiple challenges including spring frost and sustained disease pressure throughout the season. The estate's well-draining gravel soils and proximity to the Gironde proved crucial during periodic rains, while meticulous sorting and careful extraction preserved the wine's classic character. Despite reduced yields, the team's precision viticulture maintained the estate's high standards.

Poyferré’s plush style is sharpened by the vintage’s natural acidity and precision. Cabernet brings backbone and minerality, while Merlot softens the palate. A rich yet focused Saint-Julien.