Chateau Latour   Forts de Latour

2012 Forts de Latour

By Chateau Latour

2012 Forts de Latour from Chateau Latour, Pauillac, Bordeaux

The noble 2012 Forts de Latour from Chateau Latour represents a particularly intriguing chapter in the illustrious narrative of one of Bordeaux's most storied estates. This vintage lands on the palate with a pedigree deserving of its Pauillac appellation, exuding finesse and complexity found only within these sacred parcels of vine-clad earth.

 

Ripe Reflections: A Vintage's Tale

Ten years past its harvest, the 2012 vintage of Forts de Latour offers investors and connoisseurs alike a portrait of what some feared to be a challenging year, yet it stands as a testament to the estate's unwavering commitment to excellence. Amidst unpredictable climatic conditions, with a cool spring followed by intermittent summer rains, it was the impeccable terroir management that steered this vessel safely through stormy seas.

 

A Tapestry of Tannins and Terroir

One experiences a fetching alliance of ripe blackcurrant and cedar on the nose, entrancing those privileged enough to encounter such a bouquet. It yields gracefully to a well-structured palate laced with robust tannins and elegantly integrated oak, which has evolved trumping any initial trepidation of austerity. The 2012 Forts de Latour, whilst reflective of its year in its intense vigour, holds a vibrancy which promises further unfolding with time.

For investors considering the addition of this Pauillac paragon to their portfolio, understanding the balance and longevity inherent in this 2012 vintage is paramount. Forts de Latour wines perennially occupy an esteemed stratum within wine investment spheres – however, the 2012 vintage pledges not just prestige but also a flourish of potential growth as maturity ushers in further complexity.

As we allow the contemplative narrative of 2012 Forts de Latour to linger on our palates, one can observe both an embrace of tradition and an ode to resilience. Herein lies an offering poised for patient cellaring that will assuredly reveal layers yet unfurled—an unequivocal opportunity for astute collectors and hedonists alike.

Market price (HKD)

HK$15,350.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

134.17

Scores and tasting notes

92

A firm and fresh Les Forts. A pretty sample with bright fruit. Full body, with a racy backbone of tannins and a long, excellent finish.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 21st 2013

92

Composed of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2012 Les Forts de Latour has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and nose of redcurrants, black cherries and kirsch with menthol, cigars and dried herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is soft and vibrant with a lively line and an herbal lift on the finish.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 28 February 2019

89-91

The 2012 Les Forts de Latour is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest mostly Merlot and a bit of Petit Verdot. 42.4% of the crop made it into this second wine. It is a lighter-styled, medium-bodied effort exhibiting notes of graphite, black currants and wet rocks along with an attractive mid-weight and freshness. There is a lot of precision and elegance to this 2012, which, like its bigger brother, is lighter than most vintages. The 2012 Les Forts de Latour is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest mostly Merlot and a bit of Petit Verdot. 42.4% of the crop made it into this second wine. It is a lighter-styled, medium-bodied effort exhibiting notes of graphite, black currants and wet rocks along with an attractive mid-weight and freshness. There is a lot of precision and elegance to this 2012, which, like its bigger brother, is lighter than most vintages.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #206

Vintage performance