Tasted at the Latour-à-Pomerol vertical in London. The 2005 Chateau Latour-à-Pomerol is no more, no less, than a very beautiful Pomerol that is only just beginning to flex its muscles. It has a divine nose of blackberry, bilberry, warm gravel and a sprig of wild mint all with very fine delineation. The palate is initially supple in the mouth, but watch out because there is real backbone and structure to this Pomerol. What I most admire is the lucidity of this wine. There is brightness, you could almost say a sense of gaiety, not a word I often attribute to this cru. It still needs to knit together on the finish but otherwise, expect greatness from this tour de force Pomerol in the future. Tasted December 2015.

Made in the elegant style typical of the Moueix offerings, this dark plum/ruby-tinged effort displays an attractive bouquet of kirsch, sandalwood, mocha, and caramelized fruit. It is medium to full-bodied with upfront, soft, plush fruit, and ripe tannin. Give it 2-4 years of bottle age, and consume it over the following 15 or more. As I said last year, it reminds me of a more modern version of their 1970, albeit somewhat less concentrated.

Restrained on the nose but fine, harmonious palate. Soft, textured fruit, firm, ripe tannins behind, lovely length and finish. Very complete. Drink 2013-2030. (17.5 points)