2012 Château Latour 2012 6000ml

97 POINTS

Jane Anson - Decanter

This will be by far the biggest release since Latour brought in the new system, as the 2012 has not been on the market before. It's a good one to start with as this is a vintage where the drinking window is starting to come into view. This is pure liquorice, graphite and profoundly dark fruits, gourmet brushed damson and crushed stones, with a silky, appealingly open texture. The tannins are as bracing as you hope for from this estate, not giving an inch yet, but there is air between them and the structure is starting to loosen up. Harvest from September 24 to October 16, under rainy conditions after a super hot summer and early September that ensured the grapes stayed in good condition, but turned the concentration from impenetrable to an altogether more approachable style.

95 POINTS

Wine Spectator

This features a terrific, gorgeously delineated graphite note that runs from start to finish, letting the dark plum, black cherry and cassis fruit play out beautifully. Shows a lovely backdrop of charcoal and iron on the finish. Ever so slightly rigid, with a strong graphite expression, this is straight rather than expansive in feel, but seriously long nonetheless. Best from 2018 through 2030. 9,819 cases made.

93 POINTS

James Suckling

Firm and muscular Latour with silky tannins that are surround by compacted fruit. Very integrated tannins. Bright finish. Long too. It’s racy. I prefer the more structured 2011.

Steven Spurrier - Decanter

Black-red in colour, pure fragrance and sophistication, depth and structure, very exciting quality in this vintage.18.75 points Decanter