2017, Les Forts de Latour, PAUILLAC

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc.

Smells lovely, really aromatic and shining out of the glass, forward and expressive with clarity and precision on the nose full of red fruit and floral scents. Sleek and crisp, this has energy and life-force, I love the shape and straightforwardness but it’s the texture that’s so captivating - slightly firm but dense and chalky tannins give the bounce and cushioning on the palate while the fruit is lean and well defined. So well worked, feels careful, controlled, refined and polished. Sophisticated and just so seamless. Extremely young right now, coiled and tense still, direct from start to finish, it needs to slow down and soften and relax. Lovely pure and perfumed red fruits raspberry and blueberries alongside a slightly sharp, bitter grapefruit edge to the tannins as well as graphite and slate which lingers on the tongue and gives the mighty grip that doesn't let go. Stylish and enjoyable. 64 PIT, 6.7% press wine. 45.4% production. Harvest 11 September to 4 October. Technical director Hélène Genin. 1% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 94 Georgina Hindle, Decanter

Intense, deep colour. The nose has great aromatic depth and unveils delicate fruity notes. Delicious mouthfeel with fine, elegant tannins that lead to a superbly energetic finale.

Decanter: 92 / vinum: 91 / Quarin: 93 / robinson: 17 / neal martin: 94 / JS: 95 / perrotti: 95 / Wa: 94.

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