Wine Advisor
Chateau Latour 1987
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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: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
The 1987 Latour was made from 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot, without any Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot. The wine has a ruby color with some amber, and a promising bouquet of blackcurrants, spicy oak, and herbs. Medium-bodied, with more power and tannin than many wines of this vintage, it is one of the few 1987s that while ready to drink, can last for another 7-10 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2001. Last tasted, 5/93.
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
The 1987 Latour was made from 75 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 25 percent Merlot, without any Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot used in the blend. The wine has a deep ruby color, and a surprisingly backward yet promising bouquet of black currants, spicy oak, and herbs. In the mouth, it is medium bodied, exhibits more power and tannin than many wines in this vintage, and finishes with surprising authority. It is one of the few 1987s that I find not ready to drink. This is a notable success for Latour, comparable to their 1983 and 1985. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted, 4/91.
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
The 1987 Latour is another off-vintage I had not tasted before, one I had requested, knowing how well this First Growth performs in off-vintages. That said, the estate had lost its mojo in this era and served blind against the 1967; this is no match. According to Frédéric Engerer, the Merlot was severely affected this year. It has a simple red cherry and cranberry nose that lacks a bit of complexity. The palate is medium-bodied with a grainy texture and moderate depth with dark berry fruit laced with cola, but uncharacteristically, it tapers towards a rather light and ephemeral finish. Tasted at the château.
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