# Château Latour (2017)

- **Producer:** Château Latour
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.3%
- **Average price:** €520
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, violet, black cherry, cassis, chocolate, cedar, spice, olive, chalk, tobacco, wet stones

## About this wine

Château Latour 2017 is a red wine from the Pauillac appellation in Bordeaux, France, produced by Château Latour. The grapes are primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and a small amount of Petit Verdot, sourced from the estate's historic Enclos vineyard. Château Latour, a First Growth estate with a long history, is known for its commitment to quality and wines with significant aging potential. The estate made a notable decision in 2012 to move away from the traditional en primeur system, releasing wines from its cellars when they are considered ready for consumption. The 2017 vintage was influenced by a dry winter and a warm summer, with a harvest that took place under favorable conditions.

## Interesting facts

- Latour is one of only four estates to hold First Growth status since the 1855 Classification.
- The estate famously stopped selling wines 'en primeur' in 2012.
- Grapes come from the historic 'Enclos' vineyard, with vines dating back to the early 20th century.
- The 2017 vintage is noted for its balance and approachability in youth.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and structured tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats. Flavors of dark fruit and subtle earthy notes in the wine can echo or contrast with the savory elements of the dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process at Château Latour begins with meticulous grape selection from the estate's historic Enclos vineyard. Following harvest, the grapes undergo controlled fermentation, designed to extract color and tannins. The resulting wine is then aged for approximately 16 months in new French oak barrels. This aging period is crucial for developing the wine's complexity and refining its structure. The estate's approach emphasizes precision at every stage, from vineyard to bottle, aiming to produce wines that reflect their origin and possess significant aging potential.