Wines Saint-Julien Château Leoville Poyferre - Pavillon de Léoville Poyferré - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Pavillon de Léoville Poyferré 2015 is the second wine of the esteemed Château Léoville Poyferré, produced in the Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux’s left bank. This cuvée draws principally from classic Médoc grape varieties—Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a modest proportion of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc—showcasing a harmonious and accessible interpretation of the Château’s grand vin. The 2015 vintage benefited from an excellent growing season, with ideal conditions leading to superb grape ripeness and balance. The wine is matured in French oak barrels, partly new, which imparts a gentle spice and helps to polish the refined tannic structure, while preserving vibrant fruit and freshness. In the glass, Pavillon de Léoville Poyferré 2015 reveals aromas of ripe blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry, with undertones of cedar, cigar box, and subtle violets, leading to a palate that is supple, layered, and persistent.

Saint-Julien, nestled between Pauillac and Margaux on the Médoc peninsula, is renowned for the consistency and elegance of its wines. The region sits on a patchwork of gravelly soils layered over limestone, an ideal environment for Cabernet Sauvignon to flourish. The proximity to the Gironde Estuary moderates temperatures, reducing the risk of frosts and promoting even grape maturity. Saint-Julien’s history is steeped in Bordeaux’s tradition of grand châteaux, with many of its properties tracing their lineage to the famous 1855 Classification, and Léoville Poyferré itself is a respected Second Growth, producing wines praised for their finesse and longevity.

A classic food pairing for this wine would be roast leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic, a specialty of the region, or beef fillet served with gratin dauphinois. The wine’s structure and depth also make it a great companion to duck breast with a cherry reduction, or a hard French cheese such as Comté.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for one hour before serving to allow the aromas to open fully. Serve at 16-18°C. This will reveal the wine’s complex bouquet and ensure the palate is harmonious and expressive. The 2015 Pavillon de Léoville Poyferré is drinking beautifully now, but can also cellar comfortably for a further five to eight years.