Chateau Latour 2016

Chateau Latour is one of Bordeaux's most legendary First Growth estates, revered for its extraordinary concentration, structure, and unparalleled longevity. Aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, graphite, cedar, cigar box, violet, and fine spice unfold into a powerful palate with refined tannins, remarkable depth, and an exceptionally persistent finish.

Food Pairing: Pair with beef Wellington, roast lamb, venison, duck breast, truffle dishes, or aged Comte for an unforgettable First Growth Bordeaux experience.

100 Points - Decanter

The 2016 blend is 92.9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7.1% Merlot, with an IPT of 83. It represents just 36% of the overall production. At this stage, you are almost as aware of how much is being held back as how much is being revealed. The power in reserve is thrilling, even more so because although there is a lightness and florality running through the palate, it sacrifices none of Latour's signature character. This is more 2005 than 2010 in expression, a beautiful wine with the length and texture of the great vintages, lifted by exceptional salinity on the finish. Fine, refined tannins, crushed tobacco and mint leaves create a momentum that is unmistakable and even more "Latour" than the 2015 was at this stage. Hélène Génin is the winemaker and Vincent Masson (son of Pierre Masson) is the estate's biodynamic consultant. This vintage is 50% biodynamic for the Grand Vin (entirely organic), with the estate moving to 100% biodynamic from 2017 onward. My guess is that we should expect to wait around eight years before this wine reaches the market.

100 Points - Jeb Dunnuck

Retasting the 2016 Château Latour alongside both the 2010 and 2022 made me feel like a kid in a candy store. Needing plenty of air to show at its best, its deep purple hue is followed by quintessential Latour aromas of smoky black currants, scorched earth, graphite and freshly sharpened lead pencil. These carry through to a medium- to full-bodied Pauillac with lively acidity, a pure, seamless and layered mouthfeel, building yet perfectly ripe tannins, and that rare Latour combination of power, austerity and elegance that makes this château so compelling. Produced from just 36% of the estate's total production, the 2016 is composed of 92.9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7.1% Merlot, reaching 13.5% alcohol with an IPT of 83. While still primarily an academic wine at this stage, it is beginning to turn the corner and already offers pleasure thanks to its remarkable fruit and balance. Give it another 5–7 years before opening and expect a lifespan of 75–100 years.

100 Points - James Suckling

I am dreaming as I smell this wine—perfectly ripe Cabernet Sauvignon with currants, tobacco, fresh mint and orange blossoms. The bouquet is incredibly complex. Medium- to full-bodied, with perfectly integrated tannins that you hardly feel but know are there, lifting the wine to another level. It is already remarkably drinkable because of its stellar balance, yet the underlying tannic tension provides tremendous energy and a seamless texture. A benchmark Latour that reminds me of the legendary 1982 in many ways.

100 Points - Wine Enthusiast

Reaching for perfection, this Château Latour possesses immense structure and power. Almost entirely Cabernet Sauvignon, it is a monumental wine packed with tannins, rich black fruits and a solid core that will allow it to age for decades. Bright acidity and crisp black currant flavors on the finish ensure the fruit will become even more expressive as it matures. Superb.