Forts de Latour (BIO-ORGANIC) - Pauillac 2019
Château Latour, with origins dating back to 1331, is set in the heart of the Médoc, about 50 km northwest of Bordeaux—the birthplace of Bordeaux’s legendary vineyards. Les Forts de Latour is sourced from three distinct areas, including part of the Enclos. The wine takes its name from a historic parcel within the Enclos. Since it was first bottled under this name in 1966, relentless dedication to quality has placed it among the finest classified growths of the Médoc. From vineyard to cellar, Les Forts de Latour is crafted with the same meticulous care as the Grand Vin. The only key difference, aside from its origins, is the proportion of new oak barrels used for ageing—between 50% and 60%.
The 2019 vintage
2019 is characterised by its harmony and balance. A cool wet spring followed by a warm and dry summer created the right conditions for a generous crop of exceptional quality. After a mild and wet autumn, January 2019 was wet (117mm) and quite cold. The second half of February was much warmer, and this encouraged an early yet even bud break. Early June was cool and rainy. However, the weekend from 30th May to 2nd June was exceptionally fine and hot so the flowering went well. Hot and dry weather then set in from mid-June and continuedthroughout the summer. 27mm of rain in just 4 days at the end of July gave the vines some respite and kick-started the colour-change, which was registered on 6th August. Thanks to these favourable conditions which lasted until midSeptember, the berries ripened in the best possible manner and the grapes remained healthy right up to harvest.
Tasting notes:
Intense violet hue. A plethora of black fruits on the nose such as pure cassis, damson and crunchy black cherry. A touch of cedarwood, smoke and tobacco complete this highly complex wine. Whilst very charming and supple, it has a fine tannic backbone and a sappy freshness. The finale is very harmonious and long.