Once the alcoholic fermentation was carried out, the Merlot appeared to be rich and elegant (natural degree between 13 and 14°C). The Cabernet Sauvignon’s power and complexity were very impressive. Its tight structure already revealed the style and race of the vintage.
Our best Cabernet from l’Enclos showed aromas of tiny and very ripe black fruits, cooked prunes and licorice, all being very typical of our terroir.
The tastings that followed confirmed that the 2001 vintage is a homogeneous mixture of the characteristics of the past vintages of Château Latour. It resembles :
- the 1996 for its flesh and fruit
- the 1986 for its tannic structure, backbone and style.
Today, we are sure that the 2001 vintage will be one of the top vintages of the past few years.
The wine of this vintage is classic, racy, and shows a very pure balance.
Quality : Very good year.
The moment for optimal drinking: drink from 2012.
Bottling : July 2003.
What the critics say...
Robert Parker: 95 points(01/06/2004)
A brilliant offering, which should be drinkable much earlier than the blockbuster 2000, the 2001 Latour boasts an inky/ruby/purple color to the rim as well as a glorious bouquet of black currants, crushed stones, vanilla, and hints of truffles and oak. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance primarily Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it reveals a sweetness on the palate that is atypical for such a young Latour. The beautiful integration of tannin, acidity, and wood is stunning. The wine flows across the palate with fabulous texture, purity, and presence. This luscious, full-bodied Latour was surprisingly open-knit on the three occasions I tasted it from bottle. However, do not mistake its aging ability as this 2001, despite its precociousness, will last 20-25 years. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025
Pairing: Aged Cheese, Game Animals, Grilled Red Meats, Legume, Roasts, Stews.
Located in the famous Medoc wine region, about 40 kilometers north-west of the city of Bordeaux, the vineyard of Château Latour belongs to the Pauillac appellation.The quality of its wine depends partly on the type of grape variety that is being used, but also on the exceptional... combination of natural elements (geography, geology and climate) that constitutes its 'Terroir'.
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