2003 Chateau Latour Premier Cru Classe, Pauillac 1x750ml

Vinous 93

The 2003 Latour is a wine that I have tasted many times, even buying some en primeur. Now it is reaching 20 years, and like other 2003s, I am beginning to think that even the best wines in the early days are starting to fall short of expectations. That is not to say it is a bad wine by any means. With layers of black fruit on the nose and hints of cedar, white pepper and aniseed, it is pretty burly aromatically and opens nicely with 20-30 minutes in the glass. The palate is structured and assertive, with grippy tannins and plenty of tobacco-infused black fruit. However, compared to other vintages, there is something just a bit “static” about this First Growth, an immovable object. Moreover, the longer I remain in its presence, it seems a little removed from a typical Latour as if the imprimatur of the growing season is beginning to influence the wine more than the terroir. I’ve scored this wine high in the past, but it’s a complex wine to really love at the moment. Tasted at Medlar restaurant. [Neal Martin, 08/08/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2050

Robert Parker 93

Tasted at Bordeaux Index’s “10-Year On” tasting in London. The 2003 Les Forts de Latour has a classy bouquet that is very well defined: graphite infused black fruit that offers wonderful focus. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, plenty of pure black fruit mingling with pencil shavings and cedar. The finish has a sweet supple, pastille-like generosity that makes this a very appealing Les Forts. A Grand Vin in all but name. Tasted March 2013. [Neal Martin, 03/01/2013]