Chateau Latour, one of Bordeaux’s oldest and most famous wine producers, is a First Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. It’s located in Pauillac near the border with Saint-Julien.

Vines have existed on the property since the 14th century, but Chateau Latour first began producing wines of great quality in the early eighteenth century. The estate gradually came to specialize in wine production, with 38 hectares of vines in 1759 and 47 hectares in 1794.

The vineyard currently has 78 hectares in production. The grapes from the 47 hectares surrounding the chateau, known as “L’Enclos”, are used in the production of the Grand Vin. The 30 hectares outside of the Enclos are used for the Forts de Latour and the Pauillac wines. The estate is planted with about 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot on gravelly hilltops and clay subsoil.

The 2005 Les Forts de Latour 2015 Ex-Chateau Release is a captivating Bordeaux blend from the renowned wine region of Pauillac, France. This luminous red wine is crafted by Les Forts de Latour, a producer celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality.

The 2005 vintage is a true testament to the winery's prowess, boasting a beautiful blend composed predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot. Holding an alcohol content of 13.2 percent, this wine is sealed with a cork closure, preserving its integrity and character.

Upon pouring, the 2005 Les Forts de Latour reveals a dense ruby/purple color, a visual prelude to its complex aromatic profile. The nose is greeted with a symphony of blackcurrant fruit, earth, and spice, which further unfold to reveal notes of blackberries, wild strawberries, and floral scents.

On the palate, this wine is medium to full-bodied, striking a harmonious balance between refined, silky tannins and lively fresh acidity. The taste buds are further enchanted by ripe, juicy black fruits, with a whisper of soy on the aftertaste that imparts a sense of tension and edginess.

This wine's exceptional quality and complexity have earned it high praise from wine critics, with scores consistently in the 90s from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, and more. This is a wine that demands patient cellaring, with the potential to evolve beautifully over the next two decades. Whether enjoyed now or in the future, the 2005 Les Forts de Latour promises an unforgettable tasting experience, one that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation in Bordeaux winemaking.