This is an interesting winery.  In general, it can not compete with its sister wineries, Leoville Las Cases and Leoville Barton.  The terroir is similar, but the vineyard management and winemaking is not as good.  Afterall, Las Cases and Barton are two of the finest wineries in the world.  Saying that Poyferre is a step behind the other two is like saying you are a shot or two  behind Tiger Woods on the golf course.  Nothing to sneeze at.  Fortuantely for us, this makes the wines from Leoville Poyferre fairly well priced for the quality.  In the good years, where the grapes are spectacular, the skill of the winemakers and vineyard managers is less critical to the overall product, and herein lies a secret.  In the good vintages, this wine can be spectacular.  It will sell for rougly 1/3 the price of Las Cases, and 1/2 the price of Barton.

1995 is a good example.  The wine has a spectacular nose full of currants, exotic herb, and smoky wood.  The attack on the palate is strong but smooth.  The tannin is integrating well and the fruit is holding up nicely.  The finish is long and pleasant.  The wine is just now hitting it's stride.  It can keep for a number of years under proper cellar conditions.  If you see this wine at the store, buy it!  I have been picking it up at auctions, frequently for less than 45 or 50 dollars, which represents a good value for 11 year old Bordeaux.

3.75 stars

 

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