Wine Advisor
Chateau Latour 1981
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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 double-magnum, the Latour ’81 has more vigour on the nose than bottles that I have encountered. Blackberry leaf, cedar and a touch of sous-bois: very classic and austere. The palate is medium-bodied with just a touch of brettanomyces on the entry. Firm and austere but a decent level of freshness, this is not a particularly exciting Latour but it has the length that reminds you that this is a First Growth, doing its best in a difficult vintage. I would not leave it much longer given both the provenance and format of the bottle. Tasted April 2011.
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
Tasted blind at the chateau, the 1981 Latour has never been one of my favourite vintages and to be frank, I am not impressed here. It has a diffuse, rather herbaceous, autumnal bouquet with a touch of Pauillac mint, but there is a distinct lack of energy and a touch of brett. The palate is better with decayed black fruit, dusty tannins and a simple foursquare vintage. It is not terrible, but there are better 1981’s around. Tasted June 2011.
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
Deep garnet core with a distinct tawny rim. The nose is a bit mean and lean. Reminds me of an average Montrose. The palate is mature, quite soft with more fruit concentration than the nose suggests. Well-knit with notes of damson and leather with roasted herbs. Surprisingly sweet rich finish - this is one of those wines that improves in the mouth. I prefer this to Lafite. Drink now. Tasted December 2004.
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
The 1981 tastes remarkably velvety and supple for such a young Latour--not that this is a malevolent occurrence--because the excellence, complexity, and richness of the wine are still present. The color is dark ruby, the bouquet offers plenty of ripe cassis and spicy oak, and the flavor is generous, silky, moderately tannic, and long in the finish. This Latour may turn out to be similar to the 1971. Anticipated maturity: Now-2005. Last tasted, 9/90.
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