Château LATOUR 2012
In Pauillac, Château Latour occupies one of the most emblematic terroirs of the Médoc, around the historic Enclosure located in the immediate vicinity of the Gironde estuary. Premier Grand Cru Classé in 1855, the estate is based on deep gravel soils resting on clay subsoils that play an essential role in the regularity of ripening. Cabernet Sauvignon finds particularly favorable conditions here to develop depth, uprightness, and remarkable longevity, while Merlot brings more flesh and suppleness. For several decades, parcel work has been carried out with extreme precision to isolate each terroir expression and to retain only the most accomplished lots for the grand vin. The 2012 vintage, more classic than demonstrative, stands out for a straight structure, clear freshness, and great tannic quality. In a year less sunny than 2009 or 2010, Latour favors precision, energy, and length. This initial restraint is now a real asset, the wine gradually gaining complexity without losing its structure.
Château Latour 2012 blends 90.2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9.6% Merlot, and 0.2% Petit Verdot. The very high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon imparts a deep, precise, and persistent structure to the wine, with a profile marked by blackcurrant, graphite, and spices. Merlot adds volume to the mid-palate and softens the framework without altering the decidedly Médoc-dominant character of the whole. Petit Verdot is present in a minimal way but contributes to aromatic depth. The different lots are vinified separately to preserve their identity before composing the final blend. Aging in French oak barrels then supports the structure and allows a gradual integration of tannins and wood. After more than a decade in bottle, the 2012 remains very young in its evolution and has considerable aging potential.
The color shows a very deep garnet with still strong ruby reflections. The nose opens on blackcurrant, blackberry, and black plum, accompanied by graphite, cedar, and violet. Aeration gradually reveals blond tobacco, licorice, cocoa, and fine smoky nuances that enrich the fruity profile. The palate is dense but extremely precise, with tight and fine tannins that give a sensation of continuous depth. Cabernet Sauvignon brings remarkable length and persistent freshness, while Merlot slightly rounds the texture without erasing its tension. The finish is long, straight, and mineral, with blackcurrant, graphite, spices, and noble wood. Château Latour 2012 will accompany a filet of beef with porcini mushrooms, a roasted rack of lamb, pigeon, royal hare, or refined cuisine around black truffle.
Grape varieties: 90.2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9.6% Merlot, 0.2% Petit Verdot
