2005 Château Langoa Barton, St Julien, Bordeaux

A great classic, still rich and dark in colour at 17 years old, with tannins that are just beginning to allow the fruit to emerge. Powerful, concentrated and intense, with liquorice, cocoa, campfire smoke and cigar box spice. Walking the line, finishing on acidity in the best possible way, juicy and easy to recommend. There is so much St Julien pleasure at a price that makes it one of the bargains of 2005. This is the one to pick if you are choosing between 2005 Léoville and Langoa right now, as Léoville is barely out of the gate.

Drink 2022 - 2040, Jane Anson, JaneAnson.com (March 2022)