In Bond Fine Wine. 1997 Château Latour, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France. First Growth • Red Bordeaux in 12x75cl. Top critic score: 91/100 (NM). Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau Latour needs little introduction. This First Growth is home to one of the world's finest and most famous terroirs. Chateau Latour famously withdrew from the en Primeur system in 2012 in favour of releasing wines onto the market only when deemed ready by the Chateau. One of the world's great vineyards, the team under Frederic Engerer have upheld the highest standards of quality for two decades.
Neal Martin (NM) — 91/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 31/07/2008
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,…
Robert Parker (RP) — 89/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 30/04/2000 · Drink 2000-2014
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.
Stephen Tanzer (ST) — 91/100 · Vinous, 01/05/2000
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.