With our terroir, we cannot talk about the 2012 Fleur Cardinale as a late harvest because we are used to it. Our philosophy has always been to wait for the optimal ripeness. So we waited, as usual.
At the moment, the 2012 La Fleur Morange is in the process of malolactic fermentation. Looking back, I think I succeeded in this complicated vintage, even though we came very close to having catastrophic year.
The Merlot is outstanding! The berries reached optimal ripeness, fine and sweet with very high sugar levels. The same can be said for the Cabernet Franc.
In today’s fast paced world, where consumers want everything now, wines demanding decades until they mature are anachronistic. However, that is what it takes to experience Chateau Latour at its best with its marriage of complexity, elegance and power.
With our new cellars, for the first time, we are pick each plot at the perfect date. Each parcel now has its dedicated tank, so the decision of harvesting each parcel of La Conseillante depends only of its own level of ripeness!
What I will remember most from this year is the brutal discrepancy between the wet spring and summer drought. One had to be in the vineyard constantly, make smart choices on a plot by plot and even bunch by bunch at times. But that’s what our job is all about, isn’t it?
The UGC returns to North America January 2013 to show the sublime 2010 Bordeaux vintage. Events are scheduled in San Francisco Los Angeles New York Chicago Washington DC Montreal and Toronto.