Chateau Latour   Forts de Latour

1998 Forts de Latour

By Chateau Latour

1998 Forts de Latour from Château Latour, Pauillac, Bordeaux

The 1998 vintage from the historic commune of Pauillac stands as a testament to the deft craftsmanship at Château Latour. In this year, the revered Forts de Latour reveals an enigmatic blend of maturity and vibrancy—a dichotomy only attainable through meticulous viticulture paired with an enigmatic growing season.

 

A Vintage Defined by Challenge and Triumph

The 1998 season in Bordeaux was marked by climatic challenges that imbued the grape harvest with concentrated flavours. At Château Latour, careful handling of the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes crafted a harmonious balance in their Les Forts de Latour offering. As a second wine to its illustrious grand vin, it stands tall, flaunting an integrity that rivals many primary labels in less auspicious years.

 

Captivating Complexity: An Oenophile's Delight

The 1998 Forts de Latour exudes aromas of blackcurrant and aged leather, interwoven with subtle hints of tobacco and earthiness—characteristics beloved by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The palate is embraced by softened tannins which have yielded to time, allowing layers of dark fruit, truffle, and graphite to unfold in a seductive dance. A moderate acidity ensures this wine retains a fresh backbone, lending finesse to every sip.

In terms of wine investment, this particular vintage from Château Latour nurtures an enticing potential. The 1998 Forts de Latour's combination of provenance, acclaim, and the storied nature of its creation make it a remarkable contender for both seasoned and novice portfolios.

 

Connoisseur's Summary: Investing in a Rare Breed

To invest in the 1998 Forts de Latour is to invest in the rich tapestry of Bordeaux's viticultural narrative. Its composition whispers tales of adverse weather bested by human resolve; its structure encapsulates the best of old-world winemaking excellence. Already ensconced in a promising maturity, this wine offers both immediate gratification and potential for future evolution on the palate—a duality that speaks to the discerning investor seeking both pleasure and return.

Current market price

£1,700.00

12x75cl

Highest score

88

POP score

212.5

Scores and tasting notes

88-89

Intense purple. Similar colour to the First wine but with less intensity on the nose. Tannic and a fine vanilla finish. Well-integrated New Oak. Medium length. Superb 2nd wine. Tasted June 1999.

Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal

88

Latour's second wine exhibits a dark ruby/purple color as well as a nose of black fruits, ketchup, earth, and minerals. Moderately tannic and closed, it is reminiscent of its bigger brother. Give it 4-5 years of cellaring and enjoy it over the next two decades.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 April 2001

Vintage performance