Forts de Latour is the second wine of famed Chateau Latour, one of five First Growth estates in the 1855 Classification, known for making some of the boldest wines in Bordeaux. It’s often suggested that if ‘Les Forts’ was the grand vin of a different estate, it could be ranked as a Third Growth in its own right. The Chateau also makes a third wine, Pauillac de Latour.
This 2014 is a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot from young vines of the ‘Enclos’ vineyard — the main source of grapes for Latour’s grand vin — and surrounding vineyards. It’s aged in 50% new oak (vs. 100% for the grand vin) and comes in at 13.5% ABV. This vintage currently retails around $250 in the U.S., with current releases just under $200 USD.
**Tasting Notes:** Deep ruby color. Pronounced nose of blackcurrant, cigar box, vanilla, and some mushroom. Palate offers some noticeable but smooth tannins, with nice acidity to balance them out. Long, fruity, surprisingly slightly tart finish. Very nice wine, but not sure it fully justifies its price point.
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Forts de Latour is the second wine of famed Chateau Latour, one of five First Growth estates in the 1855 Classification, known for making some of the boldest wines in Bordeaux. It’s often suggested that if ‘Les Forts’ was the grand vin of a different estate, it could be ranked as a Third Growth in its own right. The Chateau also makes a third wine, Pauillac de Latour.
This 2014 is a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot from young vines of the ‘Enclos’ vineyard — the main source of grapes for Latour’s grand vin — and surrounding vineyards. It’s aged in 50% new oak (vs. 100% for the grand vin) and comes in at 13.5% ABV. This vintage currently retails around $250 in the U.S., with current releases just under $200 USD.
**Tasting Notes:** Deep ruby color. Pronounced nose of blackcurrant, cigar box, vanilla, and some mushroom. Palate offers some noticeable but smooth tannins, with nice acidity to balance them out. Long, fruity, surprisingly slightly tart finish. Very nice wine, but not sure it fully justifies its price point.