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Anthony Barton, the owner ofChâteaux Léoville-Barton and Langoa-Barton in Saint-Julien died last week at the age of 91. The wine world pays tribute to Barton as a particularly charismatic and witty person who embodied the type of gentleman.
The Barton family originally came from Ireland and settled in Bordeaux in 1725. By 1745, they were already the most important wine merchants in the region. Anthony Barton began his career in the trading company Barton & Guestier and inherited the Châteaux Léoville-Barton and Langoa-Barton in 1983. Since 1986 he lived with his family at Léoville-Barton, which he used to explain the lack of old wines: "We are too close to the reserve. The opportunity to go into the cellar just presents itself, which I haven't regretted once, by the way."
Bordeaux fans appreciate the classic style of the two wineries, which requires a little patience but rewards with long ageing. Langoa-Barton in particular has experienced a significant quality boost in recent years. In the top league of Bordeaux, both châteaux are among the more favourably priced, which Barton once commented as follows: "You have to learn to be satisfied. Barton allows me to live a splendid life. Last week I bought new shoes and food for my dog. So we are all doing splendidly."
It is sayings like this that Anthony Barton will be remembered for. His not entirely serious advice is legendary today: "The most important investment in a wine collector's life is buying a corkscrew!" Or: "A magnum bottle is the right format if you're spending an evening alone at home. Provided you start with champagne and drink Sauternesafterwards."
(al / Source: drinksbusiness; Photo: Leoville-Barton)