2001 Chateau Latour, Pauillac, France 3.0L

"A brilliant offering, which should be drinkable much earlier than the blockbuster 2000, the 2001 Latour boasts an inky/ruby/purple color to the rim as well as a glorious bouquet of black currants, crushed stones, vanilla, and hints of truffles and oak. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance primarily Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it reveals a sweetness on the palate that is atypical for such a young Latour. The beautiful integration of tannin, acidity, and wood is stunning. The wine flows across the palate with fabulous texture, purity, and presence. This luscious, full-bodied Latour was surprisingly open-knit on the three occasions I tasted it from bottle. However, do not mistake its aging ability as this 2001, despite its precociousness, will last 20-25 years. "

"Extremely attractive aromas of blackberries and currants with just a hint of mineral and oak. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, long finish. As it was from barrel; powerful and fast. Serious stuff. "

Tasted blind at the château, the 2001 continues to be an exceptional wine, one of the finest in the vintage. It has a wonderful, graphite-tinged nose that unfurls beautifully with blackberry and touch of dried orange peel with more noticeable cigar box aromas than I have noticed before. The palate displays superb definition with fine but rigid tannins and crisp acidity. It is not a powerful Latour, but one that is very refined and controlled. In another ten years, it will be ranked against the 2000 and who knows, it may even match it. Outstanding. Tasted June 2011.