Château Léoville Poyferré St Julien AOC 2ème Cru Classé 1970

Vineyards

Château Léoville Poyferré is located in the esteemed Saint-Julien appellation of the Médoc region in Bordeaux. The estate's vineyards span approximately 80 hectares and are planted on the region's characteristic deep gravel soils over a clay subsoil. These well-draining soils are ideal for cultivating classic Bordeaux varieties, allowing the vines to develop deep root systems that contribute to the complexity and longevity of the wines. The vineyards benefit from the temperate maritime climate influenced by the nearby Gironde estuary, which moderates temperatures and reduces the risk of frost.

Winemaking

The 1970 vintage was vinified using traditional Bordeaux methods. The grapes were hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit was used. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled vats, followed by extended maceration to extract optimal colour and tannins. The wine was then aged in French oak barrels, a proportion of which were new, for approximately 18 to 20 months. 

Appearance

Deep garnet with a brick-red rim, indicative of its maturity and evolution over time.

Nose

The bouquet is complex and evolved, offering aromas of dried blackcurrant, plum, and fig, intertwined with secondary notes of cedar, leather, tobacco, and a hint of earthy forest floor.

Palate

On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with softened tannins and a silky texture. Flavours of mature dark fruits mingle with notes of cigar box, truffle, and savoury spices. A balanced acidity provides freshness, leading to a long, elegant finish with lingering nuances of dried fruit and a touch of minerality.

Food pairing

This mature Bordeaux pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, beef fillet, or game dishes such as venison or pheasant. It also complements hard cheeses like aged Comté or mature Cheddar, making it an excellent choice for a refined dinner or special occasion.

Background story

Château Léoville Poyferré is one of the three Léoville estates that originated from the historic Léoville estate, which was partitioned during the French Revolution. Classified as a Second Growth (Deuxième Cru Classé) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, the estate has a long-standing reputation for producing wines of elegance, power, and longevity. The Cuvelier family acquired the property in 1920 and has since been dedicated to enhancing the quality and reputation of the estate's wines. The 1970 vintage is considered a classic year in Bordeaux, yielding wines of excellent structure and ageing potential.