La Reserve De Leoville Barton, St. Julien 2017 (1x75cl)

Saint-Julien is on Bordeaux's left bank, where the blends are Cabernet-led. In style it sits between Margaux and Pauillac: not as perfumed and light-footed as one, not as broad-shouldered as the other, which is why a lot of people find Saint-Julien the easiest left bank commune to like.

A sensible bottle for a dinner where the food is red meat and the company expects Bordeaux. Also a familiar name if you are buying a client gift and want something that reads clearly on the label.

Tasting notes

Cabernet-led Saint-Julien usually shows blackcurrant and cedar with firm but tidy tannin. Typically at home with steak, lamb, or roast beef. Give it an hour open if you can.