Château Latour Pauillac 1855 1er Cru 1985

I have been spoilt with Latour wines this year, and narrowed the final selection down to this one or the 2003, simply because that more recent vintage is such a surprise in terms of how fresh and delicious it feels after such a hot vintage. I’ve gone with the 1985 as it is fully tertiary in character but still majestic, and truly at a wonderful moment to drink, rippling with creamy raspberry and blackberry fruits, with the lingering memories of toast, soft leather and mint leaf providing a mouthwatering finish. Enjoyed at a friend’s house, alongside a number of exceptional wines, but the Latour stood out around the table. Jean Paul Gardère technical director, almost a decade before François Pinault bought the property in 1993, with Lord Cowdray owner. Unquestionably the best example that I have encountered of this wine. No third wine at the time, meaning the selection was a little less strict than it would become a few years later. 100% new oak.