Les Forts de Latour 2011 represents the distinguished second wine of the First Growth Château Latour, hailing from the prestigious Pauillac appellation on Bordeaux's Left Bank. Sourced from specific parcels within the Latour estate, including the historic L'Enclos, as well as younger vines, it benefits from the same meticulous viticultural practices and winemaking expertise applied to the Grand Vin.
The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux presented its challenges, marked by an early, hot spring followed by a cooler, wetter summer. However, the rigorous selection process at Château Latour ensured that only the finest fruit contributed to Les Forts. This vintage showcases the inherent Pauillac typicity: a robust structure, pronounced dark fruit character, and the classic graphite and cedar notes that promise excellent ageing potential, albeit with a more approachable profile than its elder sibling.
Tasting notes
The 2011 Les Forts de Latour presents a deep ruby hue, hinting at its concentration. On the nose, a complex bouquet unfolds with classic Pauillac markers: ripe blackcurrant, cassis, and dark plum, interwoven with nuances of cedar, graphite, and a subtle hint of tobacco leaf. The palate is defined by its elegant structure and refined tannins, characteristic of the vintage. A vibrant acidity underpins the dark fruit core, leading to a persistent finish marked by mineral freshness and a lingering savoury complexity. While approachable now, this wine possesses the requisite balance and depth to evolve gracefully over the next decade.