1996 Ch. Latour, Pauillac

Latour is a model for consistancy and excellence in even the poorest of vintages. In a superb year like 1996 the results are heavenly! This is a textbook Latour, massively concentrated, rich, with polished tannins and full bodied without being heavy. The extraordinary power and balance of this wine is phenomenal. It should continue to evolve to 2030.

A spectacular Latour, the 1996 may be the modern day clone of the 1966, only riper. This vintage, which is so variable in Pomerol, St.-Emilion, and Graves, was fabulous for the late-harvested Cabernet Sauvignon of the northern Medoc because of splendid weather in late September and early October. An opaque purple color is followed by phenomenally sweet, pure aromas of cassis infused with subtle minerals. This massive offering possesses unreal levels of extract, full body, intensely ripe, but abundant tannin, and a finish that lasts for nearly a minute. Classic and dense, it displays the potential for 50-75 years of longevity.
(Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, Issue 129,  Jun 2000)