2019 Les Forts de Latour, Pauillac

Composed of 65.8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31.9% Merlot, and 2.3% Petit Verdot, the 2019 Les Forts de Latour is deep garnet-purple in color. It opens with classic scents of cedar, cassis, and plum preserves, followed by suggestions of bay leaves, lavender, and crushed rocks. The medium to full-bodied palate is tight-knit, bright, and refreshing, with fine-grained tannins and a mineral-laced finish. (LPB)

Tasted at the property as part of their annual releases. Les Forts de Latour is certainly one of the finest “second” wines out there—not simply because it’s a lovely representation of the region, but because it genuinely conveys what makes the Grand Vin so special. This vintage beautifully combines the ripeness of 2019 with the luxurious texture that defines Latour, resulting in a wine many estates would be proud to call their Grand Vin. Aromas of bright red fruit, cedar, and potpourri suggest lifted, high-toned character, while the palate unfolds with notes of leather, dried cherry, and fine, mouth-coating tannins. Layered, ripe, dense, and long, this is a dynamic, top-tier Pauillac that clearly displays its Latour pedigree. Sure, it may be a “second” wine, but there are no compromises in this brilliant Bordeaux collectible.