FORTS DE LATOUR 2005 750ML

The Latour oenological staff have always maintained that the “second” wine is the
equivalent of an 1855 classified second-growth, it is not just a product made from declassified grapes. It is vinified with the
same care and attention as Chateau Latour and blind tastings are carried out against the classified second-growths to compare
quality. If the wine of Forts de Latour does not come up to snuff, it will be declassified to a regional Pauillac. The vineyards
that provide the fruit for Forts de Latour are within the estate of Chateau Latour and are called Petit Batailley, Comtesse de
Lalande and Les Forts de Latour. Additional grapes from vines less than 12 years old may be added or surplus wine from the
barrels of Chateau Latour may be included in the blend. It is sold on the futures market and is considered the top second wine
of any of the great houses. In the best years the critics often rank Forts de Latour very close to Latour. "The finest second
wine I tasted,” says Parker of Latour's second wine.