1997 Latour, Pauilliac (Pre-Arrival)

91 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Medium red. Roasted currant, lead pencil, grilled nuts, tobacco and minerals on the nose. Smooth, vinous and concentrated, with lovely depth of flavor and ripe acidity for the vintage. Finishes with even tannins and excellent length. A very successful '97." (May/June '00) 91 points Neal Martin for Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Compared to Lafite '97, this seems more mature on the nose and lacking the similar sense of harmony. Blackberry, cedar, damson, cigar box - but just lacking some vigour and chutzpah. The palate is better than the nose, harmonious with Latour’s signature firmness. Great definition, more weight than Lafite with notes of blackberry, leather, tobacco and a touch of game leading to a tannic, natural, tobacco-infused finish. A conservative Latour that does not particularly transcend the vintage. Drink now-2018. Tasted September 2006." (06/08) According to Robert Parker: "A flavorful, savory Latour, without a great deal of density or power, the 1997 exhibits sweet, walnut-tinged, black currant fruit intertwined with minerals and subtle wood. Nicely-textured, with adequate acidity, ripe tannin, and a medium-bodied finish, this smooth effort should drink well for 12-14 years." (04/00) And, according to the Wine Spectator: "Delicious now. Lovely aromas of tobacco, toasted oak, cherry and meat. Medium- to full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a soft and fruity aftertaste." ETA: Late Fall of 2009.