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 2017 Les Forts de Latour is a Bordeaux Blend from the esteemed Pauillac region in Bordeaux, France. With its deep red color and elegant appearance, this wine exudes sophistication from the very first glance. The nose is greeted with a fragrant floral curl, followed by enticing aromas of raspberry, blackberry, and fresh earth. Subtle notes of cocoa powder and slate add complexity to the bouquet.

On the palate, this wine truly shines. It showcases a fine, elegant, and almost chalky aspect to its tannins, creating a silky and smooth texture. The raspberry and blackberry fruit flavors dance on the tongue, accompanied by a refreshing hint of cocoa power and slate. The finish is mouthwatering, leaving you yearning for another sip.

Despite its youth, the 2017 Les Forts de Latour displays remarkable evolution and clear architectural structure. It reveals the careful craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its production. The September rains of 2017 posed a challenge for Latour, but they successfully navigated the difficult conditions, producing a wine of exceptional quality.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive score of 95 points. He described it as juicy and spicy, with notes of fresh tobacco, red currants, and crushed stone. Medium to full-bodied, it showcases medium velvety tannins and a delicious finish. Suckling suggests that this wine will age beautifully and recommends enjoying it after 2026.

Other critics, such as Robert Parker's Wine Advocate and Wine Enthusiast, also highly praise the 2017 Les Forts de Latour. They commend its structure, depth, and purity of fruit, as well as its supple tannins and precise profile. Wine Spectator notes the wine's bright and fresh characteristics, with floral, cassis, and plum aromas and flavors. They suggest that it will be best enjoyed from 2022 through 2038.

Overall, the 2017 Les Forts de Latour is a wine that embodies elegance, refinement, and sophistication. Its superb craftsmanship and complex flavor profile make it a true delight for wine enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed now or aged for further development, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.