1979 Chateau Latour, Pauillac, France 3.0L

This wine has been difficult to evaluate, as evidenced by mutiple tasting notes that varied greatly in terms of the wine's style and quality. In most examples, the 1979 Latour has been backward and astringent, with medium body and reasonably good fruit. Two examples have been quite rich, with noticeable acidity, medium body, and the classic Latour mineral, walnut, and black fruit character. As I have said before, this wine is a light-bodied version of the outstanding 1971 Latour. Anticipated maturity: Now-2005. Last tasted 1/97

Fascinating aromas of plums, minerals and mint, with a hint of peat. Medium- to full-bodied, with firm tannins and a long finish. Plenty of life left in it. This was rather controversial at the NY tasting, but I loved it.--Latour vertical. Drink now through 2015.