Wine Advisor
Chateau Latour 1973
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Description
Chateau Latour is among the First Growth properties classified in the Bordeaux 1855 Classification. The estate is situated in the southern portion of Pauillac, bordering St. Julien and the Gironde estuary. Latour is considered one of the longest-lasting First Growths, reflecting its high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon. Chateau Latour has an almost unequaled track record for producing stunning wines that age and evolve for decades, if not generations.
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
Served from ex-chateau magnum at the Academie du Vin dinner, the Latour ’73 must surely be one of the wines of the vintage, which is not saying a lot considering it was one of the worst growing seasons ever. Deep in colour, the nose is closed at first and then opens to reveal a curious but not dislikeable scent of kidney beans and melted tar. The palate is medium-bodied with chunky but not brutish tannins. Yet it is unapologetically masculine but uncharacteristically bucolic. There is decent freshness here – an enjoyable off-vintage First Growth that made good “old bones”. Tasted April 2013.
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
A featherweight for Latour, even considering the watery, diluted character of most wines from this vintage, the 1973 Latour still offers light, charming, somewhat complex drinking as it has held together much better than I would have suspected. Soft, ripe, moderately intense flavors seem dominated by Merlot and exhibit no tannin. This atypical Latour requires immediate drinking. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 2/87.
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