Who makes it?
The storied history of Château Latour is a testament to the enduring excellence of Bordeaux winemaking. While its roots as a lord's domain date back to the 14th century, the estate’s true winemaking legacy began in the late 17th century when it came under the stewardship of the Ségur family. Known as the "Prince of the Vines," Nicolas-Alexandre de Ségur elevated the property’s reputation to such heights that by the 18th century, a barrel of Latour was valued at twenty times that of a standard Bordeaux. This consistent dedication to quality earned the estate its prestigious Premier Cru (First Growth) status in the historic 1855 classification. Today, under the ownership of François Pinault’s Artémis group, Château Latour continues to stand as a global icon of prestige and tradition.
How is it made?
Located in the heart of the Pauillac appellation, the vineyard at Château Latour benefits from a unique terroir and an exceptional microclimate. The estate has evolved from its humble beginnings into a world leader in sustainable viticulture, with a seventy-strong team dedicated to a constant "quest for perfection." Under the leadership of Director Hélène Génin and Vineyard Manager Domingo Sanchez, the estate utilizes a blend of traditional expertise and modern innovation. From meticulous biodynamic methods to advanced traceability systems, every step of the production process is designed to honor the environment while ensuring extreme precision. This rigorous attention to detail in both the vineyard and the winery allows the terroir to express its powerful, signature character in every vintage.
What does it taste like?
The Château Latour 2014 is a quintessential expression of a classic Pauillac, presenting a deep garnet-black hue that hints at its immense concentration. On the nose, it offers an intense and sophisticated bouquet of cassis, blackberry, and violets, seamlessly layered with complex notes of pencil shavings, graphite, and earthy minerality. The palate is full-bodied and remarkably structured, featuring a dense core of black fruit framed by firm, fine-grained tannins. With a blend dominated by 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, this vintage possesses incredible energy and a long, aristocratic finish that reveals hints of licorice and subtle spice. While it demands cellaring to reach its full potential, the 2014 vintage showcases the impeccable balance and age-worthiness that define a true First Growth wine.
Key Characteristics:
- Appellation: Pauillac, Bordeaux
- Classification: First Growth (Premier Cru)
- Primary Notes: Blackcurrant, Graphite, Violet, and Cedar
- Potential: Exceptional aging potential with a structured, muscular palate.