The 2014 Langoa Barton was impressive in barrel and this bottle-showing completely vindicated that initial enthusiasm. It has an impressive bouquet with redcurrant, blackberry and cedar aromas, with a hint of violet as it opens in the glass. This is lovely. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe black cherry and raspberry fruit on the entry. It comes across as a playful, joyous, exuberant Langoa Barton that is almost sensual on the long finish. What a great 2014 Saint Julien from team Barton! Form an orderly queue and load up on this gem.

Tasted blind. Black core with garnet rim. Dark and smoky black fruit. Lightly leafy/cedary, too. Juicy fruit within very fine tannins. Lighter-bodied than some, harmonious and almost approachable. (JH)

Bright crimson. Nicely knit nose. Quite a sour finish though. Not much fun at the moment. Almost exaggerates 2014’s shortcomings of slight brutality. (JR)