Château Latour in Pauillac stepped away from the Bordeaux trading system of offering wine en primeur immediately after harvest a few years ago. They now release a vintage from their cellars each year that they consider perfect for enjoying now and in the years to come. Château Latour 2016 Blend: 92.9% Cabernet Sauvignon – 7.1% Merlot Harvest dates: Merlot from September 22nd to 30th – Cabernet Sauvignon from October 7th to 19th The domain Château Latour is located in the heart of the Médoc, some 50 km northwest of Bordeaux, where the legend of the Bordeaux vineyards originates. The estate's most prestigious terroir, l'Enclos , overlooks the Gironde estuary. This proximity has for centuries provided both a rich geological subsoil and a mild, favorable microclimate. Since 1993, the estate has been owned by the Pinault family, who have made significant improvements to the vineyard and cellar, with the aim of continuing the ongoing quest for excellence in Château Latour wines. Harvest year 2016 The 2016 vintage produced wines of remarkable purity and concentration – a vintage that will not soon be forgotten. A mild and wet winter was followed by a cool March, prompting budding for Merlot on March 24th and for Cabernet Sauvignon on March 30th. Early May, warm and dry weather accelerated growth, although the second half of the month was turbulent, increasing disease pressure. Early June saw a dry spell with temperatures between 20 and 25°C, which stimulated flowering – Merlot was in full bloom on June 6th. During the night of June 6th to 7th, 28mm of rain fell, but this did not hinder the flowering of the Cabernet Sauvignon, which followed the next day. July was exceptionally hot and dry, but the water reserves in the soil helped the vines cope well with these conditions. In early August, 8 mm of rain fell, which accelerated the ripening process: Merlot began to turn color on August 10th, Cabernet Sauvignon on August 12th. September was warm and sunny, and although the first signs of water and heat stress were visible, a 35mm downpour brought relief at just the right time. This allowed ripening to complete under ideal conditions. Tasting note The color is deep and dark. The perfume is seductive and floral, with aromas of violets, rose petals, blueberries, and black olives, supported by a chalky minerality. On the palate, this regal wine displays impressive complexity and concentration. Its structure is supported by tense, precise tannins and a long, clean finish. Ratings: 100 James Suckling, 100 Vinous (A. Galloni), 100 Vinous (N. Martin), 100 Jane Anson, 100 Decanter, 100 The Wine Independent (L. Perrotti-Brown), 100 Jeb Dunnuck, 98 Wine Spectator, 96+? Wine Advocate, 99 Wine Enthusiast FACT: In the tab: Attachment, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll also receive a nice discount. We're located almost next to the Rijksweg with ample parking. Click here for the address