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 2015 Les Forts de Latour, a Bordeaux Blend from the esteemed Pauillac region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine exudes sophistication and elegance from the moment it is poured into the glass. With its deep, garnet color and a hint of purple at the edge, this wine is visually stunning.

On the nose, aromas of iron, rust, and hot stones mingle with notes of currants and dark berries. These complex scents create a captivating bouquet that entices the senses. As the wine caresses the palate, it reveals a full-bodied and velvety texture, thanks to its firm and ultra-silky tannins. The finish is long and polished, leaving a lasting impression.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive score of 95 points. He describes it as racy and driven, with a suggested drinking window of 2022 and beyond. Jeb Dunnuck also praises this vintage, giving it a score of 94 points. He notes the abundance of cassis and jammy currant fruits, accompanied by cedarwood, leafy herbs, earth, and graphite.

Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, and nicely structured, the 2015 Les Forts de Latour showcases a wealth of fruit and sweet tannins. It possesses a great finish and can be enjoyed now or cellared for 20-25 years or more, according to Dunnuck.

Another respected critic, Jeff Leve, describes this wine as a Pauillac aristocrat. On the palate, he notes flavors of chocolate-coated currants, cigar box, flowers, and tobacco leaf. The wine is medium to full-bodied, concentrated, firm, fresh, juicy, and lively, with a creamy texture and a sweet, red currant-packed finish.

With a composition of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35.6% Merlot, and smaller percentages of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, this wine showcases the classic Bordeaux Blend. The 2015 Les Forts de Latour is truly a testament to the exceptional terroir of Pauillac and the meticulous winemaking techniques employed by Les Forts de Latour.

This wine has received high praise from various publications, including Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, which awarded it 94+ points. The reviewer describes it as a powerhouse, bursting with rich, ripe black fruits and loads of spicy sparks. The wine is beautifully framed by plush tannins and finishes long and minerally.

The 2015 Les Forts de Latour also received accolades from Vinous, which gave it a score of 94 points. The reviewer notes its silky and perfumed nature, as well as its generous and inviting personality. The wine can be enjoyed over the next 15 years or so.

Decanter also commends this vintage, giving it a score of 94 points. The reviewer highlights the wine's floral aromatics and gourmet edge, along with touches of truffle, cigar box, and an earthy openness. This wine possesses an ease and appeal that can be enjoyed now and for at least another 15 years.

Wine Spectator awards this wine 91 points, praising its purity and focus. The black currant and black cherry fruit flavors offer lovely freshness, while hints of graphite, singed black tea leaf, and violet add complexity. The silky finish lingers on the palate, making this wine a delight to savor.

Lastly, Wine Enthusiast gives this wine a score of 95 points, describing it as smooth, rounded, and rich. The dark tannins and blackberry fruits provide concentration, while the acidity adds a vibrant fruity aftertaste.

Overall, the 2015 Les Forts de Latour is an exceptional Bordeaux Blend that showcases the best of Pauillac. With its complexity, elegance, and aging potential, this wine is a true gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike.