Château Léoville-Poyferré Saint-Julien 2015 - 2nd Grand Cru Classé

Bettane & Desseauve

About wine:

A very complete wine, confirming the promise shown in barrel, with a magical texture that rivals the greatest vintages of the past. Wait another ten years or so. 2027-2040

About the estate:

The vineyard is located in a privileged position opposite the best plots of Léoville-Las Cases and in line with those of Pichon-Longueville Baron. The wine perfectly reflects this location, regularly ranking among the most powerful but also the most complex and harmonious in the entire Médoc region. A slightly higher percentage of Merlot than the other two Léovilles gives it a slightly rounder texture. Didier Cuvelier is taking semi-retirement but will of course continue to ensure the continuity of the excellence he has established. Pavillon-de-Poyferré, now the château's true second wine, is progressing, as is Moulin-Riche, now produced from its own vineyard, rather like Clos-du-Marquis in relation to the Léoville grand vin.

Guide Hachette des vins

About wine:

A remarkable vintage for Léoville Poyferré, with this very elegant wine displaying a deep ruby color and a powerful bouquet of black cherry, licorice, and toasted bread. Everything points to good grapes meeting good oak barrels: the palate is velvety, rich, concentrated, structured by elegant oak and powerful yet silky tannins. 2022-2030

About the estate:

Like the two other wines produced on the former Léoville estate, Poyferré, named after the Count of Poyferré, who came from a noble family in Armagnac and inherited the vineyard from his wife during the division, benefits from a prime terroir. Covering an area of 80 hectares, it is spread across the entire commune of Saint-Julien: to the east, near the Gironde, there are brown gravel and pebbles; to the west, black sand. These assets have been enhanced since 1979 by Didier Cuvelier, whose family, former wine merchants in Lille, acquired the property in 1920.

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About wine:

This is a very strong contender in the race for the top spot of the vintage. Massive, dense, but also very subtle, it imposes its noble character on the palate, especially with its very refined tannins.

About the estate:

Since the late 1970s and the arrival of Didier Cuvelier, this second growth has been completely renovated. Many plots have been replanted and the winemaking equipment updated. The vines are now of a respectable age and the wine is in the running for excellence within an appellation that has no shortage of challengers. The wines possess a vitality and fullness that now place them at the top of the appellation. The terroir gives Poyferré wines their deep color, full-bodied and lively texture, broad spicy bouquet, and potential for longevity.

Vinous

About wine:

Léoville-Poyferré 2015 is spectacular. Inky, dense, and explosive, this 2015 has extraordinary richness, with supple contours, no rough edges, and exceptional balance. All the elements are simply fused together. Notes of blue and purple fruits, chocolate, new leather, blueberry jam, exotic spices, and violets are all beautifully highlighted. Fresh, vibrant, and utterly sexy, Léoville-Poyferré is one of the wines of the vintage—don't miss it! Tasted twice. 2025-2045

James Suckling

About wine:

A rich, intense red with blackberries, tar, and spices. Black tea and blueberries. Full-bodied, very layered, and multidimensional. Very long and flavorful. Such a beautiful texture. A dynamic and superb red.

Jeb Dunnuck

About wine:

Léoville Poyferré 2015 is cut from the same cloth as the 2016, but it is sexier, rounder, and more opulent. Notes of blackcurrant, licorice, crushed stone, graphite, and pencil lead emerge from this smooth, ripe, beautiful wine, which is bursting with fruit and texture. This wine reminds me of the 2003, but it is fresher. It should be ready to drink in 3 to 4 years and last for 3 to 4 decades. 

Yves Beck

About wine:

Deep garnet red. Intense, complex bouquet, marked by black berries, cocoa beans, and hints of mint. Slightly sweet, compact attack. On the palate, the wine has perfectly integrated, slightly grainy tannins that lend power and elegance, while being in harmony with the structure. A deep, subtle wine at the top of the St-Julien appellation. Respect! 2023-2045

The Wine Cellar Insider - Jeff Leve

About wine:

With a slight lightening of color, the wine opens with hints of blackcurrant and redcurrant, spices, flowers, crème de cassis, thyme, smoke, and licorice. On the palate, the wine is opulent, long, polished, lush, and elegant. The fruit glides across your palate, offering waves of sweet, deep red berries. The finish lingers, building and expanding. Give it a few more years and you will find even more opulence and sensuality. Drink from 2027 to 2057.