2016 Chateau Latour Grand Cru Classe

collectable • bordeaux

Achieving ten 100 point scores (perfection), the 2016 Château Latour is a monumental Pauillac. The 2016 Latour combines power, purity, and precision in a way that defines this exceptional vintage. The wine opens with deep, resonant aromas of blackcurrant, graphite, cedar, tobacco leaf, and crushed stone, supported by hints of violets, licorice, and subtle spice. On the palate, it is intensely structured yet impeccably refined, with layers of dense, dark fruit wrapped in firm but ultra-fine tannins. Its trademark Latour backbone—steely, mineral-driven, and quietly authoritative—anchors the wine with effortless sophistication.

This vintage is still in its early stages and will continue to unfold for decades. Over time, the 2016 will develop greater aromatic complexity, revealing notes of cigar box, leather, dried flowers, forest floor, and truffle while the fruit deepens into cassis, blackberry compote, and plum. The texture will gradually soften, transitioning from youthful firmness to a seamless, velvety elegance while retaining remarkable freshness.

Food pairings should match the wine’s depth and structure. Classic choices include dry-aged ribeye, roast lamb with herbs, beef Wellington, duck breast, venison, or dishes featuring earthy components like mushrooms, truffles, and root vegetables. Hard cheeses such as aged Comté or Parmesan also pair exceptionally well.

As for longevity, 2016 Latour is built for the long haul. It will drink beautifully from the early 2030s onward, but true maturity will unfold between 2040 and 2060, with the potential to age gracefully for 60+ years in optimal cellaring conditions. This is a timeless, collector-worthy Latour—one of the greatest modern expressions of the estate.