Les Forts de Latour 2010
The vineyards of the Chateau Latour have been producing wines since the 16th century. Today, the vineyards in production cover 80 hectares, including 48 around the chateau, known as the "Enclos." This Enclos consists of a ridge that peaks at 16 meters above the level of the Gironde, bordered to the north and to the south by two streams and to the east by the "Palus" alluvial land along the Gironde. The grape varietals planted on the estate, typical of the Medoc, consist of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Chateau Latour produces three different wines: Grand Vin, Forts de Latour and Pauillac de Chateau Latour. All of them receive the same meticulous care and dedication. The first vintage of Forts de Latour was in 1966 and constant work in the vineyard and in the cellars has resulted in achieving the level of a top Medoc classified growth.
Wine Spectator: 95
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A solid, briary, grippy, tarry Pauillac, with a sappy edge to the kirsch, blackberry, plum skin and steeped fig notes, liberally laced with anise and tar. Shows good energy through the finish, with a cassis bush note echoing.
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Wine Advocate: 97
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Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Les Forts de Latour seems just a little tired compared to the last time I tried it, offering a core of dried mulberries, fruitcake and Chinese five spice followed by scents of balsamic, woodsmoke and fragrant earth. Full-bodied, the palate has chewy, rugged tannins and evolved black fruits, finishing spicy. While still very delicious, I think this bottle may have been a bit oxidized, ergo the question mark after the score.
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Wine Enthusiast: 94
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Powerful, yet beautiful and smoothly structured. It has ripe, rich fruits, spice and sweet acidity. As a contrast, there is a dense core of tannins where the wine shows some severity and youth.
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James Suckling: 96
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Aromas of currants, blueberries and blackberries with a dark chocolate undertone. Perfumes and beautiful. Full body, with velvety tannins that are fine-tuned and tentative. It lasts for minutes. Gorgeous fruit and richness. Perhaps the greatest Les Fort ever?
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