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.

Introducing the 2014 Chateau Latour 2022 Ex-Chateau Release, a Bordeaux Blend from the renowned Pauillac region of Bordeaux, France. This exquisite red wine is a true reflection of the mastery and craftsmanship of Chateau Latour, a producer with a long-standing reputation for excellence. With a deep, enticing red color, this wine immediately captivates the senses.

The nose is a symphony of aromas, showcasing the complexity and depth of this vintage. Layers of black fruit, olives, wet earth, dried lavender, cloves, and bark mingle together, creating an intoxicating bouquet. Bitter chocolate and walnuts add richness and depth to the aromatic profile. On the lighter mid-palate, cedar notes emerge, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

On the palate, the 2014 Chateau Latour is medium-to full-bodied, with firm, tight-grained tannins that give structure and backbone to the wine. It is well-balanced, with great freshness and length. The concentrated flavors of black fruit, tobacco, truffly earth, and graphite unfold beautifully, revealing the wine's full potential. The finish is long, mouthwatering, and leaves a lasting impression.

Critics have raved about this wine, with James Suckling awarding it an impressive score of 97 points. He describes it as still a little tight and chewy, recommending to try it from 2024. Jeb Dunnuck also praises this vintage, awarding it 96+ points. He remarks that it is still a baby, offering meaty black fruits, tobacco, truffly earth, and graphite. He suggests giving it another 7-8 years of bottle age.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gives this wine a score of 97+ points, highlighting its mingling aromas of wild berries, cassis, cigar wrapper, and black truffles. They describe it as full-bodied, rich, and concentrated, with powdery, chalky tannins and a long, mouthwatering finish. Vinous awards it 95 points, praising its beautifully defined bouquet and medium-bodied palate with tobacco and graphite-infused black fruit.

The 2014 Chateau Latour has a promising future and will continue to develop and evolve over the next few decades. Wine Enthusiast recommends enjoying it from 2027, as the tannins are still enormous and dominate the black currant fruit. Wine Spectator also suggests waiting until 2022 for the wine to reach its peak, describing it as having terrific cut and drive, with mouthwatering acidity and a chiseled graphite note.

Jane Anson, a respected wine critic, considers this wine one of the wines of the vintage, with its depth, power, and sheer confidence shining through. She recommends taking your time with this wine, allowing the slow progression of flavors and textures to unroll at their own pace. Jeff Leve also praises the wine, remarking that it offers a wealth of regal fruit and is a great Latour.

In conclusion, the 2014 Chateau Latour 2022 Ex-Chateau Release is a wine of exceptional quality and craftsmanship. With its complex aromas, firm tannins, and long, mouthwatering finish, it is a true testament to the artistry of Chateau Latour. This wine will continue to evolve and delight for many years to come, making it a worthy addition to any wine lover's collection.