Latour 2000

Served blind at the chateau. There is so much brooding intensity in this wine, almost as if it is stalking the senses. Certainly there is remarkable mineralite here, sensational definition with briary and graphite developing with time. The palate is firm and masculine, tannic, powerful, such density and weight on the finish, yet showing no compassion to the tasted…yet. Approached blind, this is difficult to love as it is such uncompromising Latour, but it will blossom. Tasted December 2009.

The 2000 Latour (a relatively abundant 14,000 cases compared to what they produced in 2009, 2008, or 2005) is “packed and stacked.” The extremely rich, black/purple color to the rim is followed by a wine with some subtle smoke, loads of minerals, a hint of vanilla, and plenty of creme de cassis as well as roasted meat and a slight scorched earth character. Broad, savory, and rich, the wine seems to be about 5 years away from full maturity and should drink well for at least 40-50 more years. A great effort, probably eclipsed only by 2003 and 2009.

This is a deep yet subtle giant with black truffles, currants, raspberries, and dried flowers. A fabulous nose, amazing already. Full bodied, yet reserved. Absolutely mind blowing on the palate, truly unbelievable. Please don’t touch this for another five or six years, this emotional, soulful wine needs the time. Pull the cork in 2016.