Louis Latour Chambertin Grand Cru "Cuvee Heritiers Latour" 2011

Chambertin Grand Cru "Cuvée Héritiers Latour" 2011 is a monumental red wine from the Côte de Nuits, representing the pinnacle of Pinot Noir from one of the world's most famous vineyards.

The "Héritiers Latour" designation refers to the specific parcels owned by the Latour family within the Chambertin Grand Cru appellation since the late 19th century. Maison Louis Latour, founded in 1797, is one of Burgundy's most traditional and respected "negociant-eleveurs". Their winemaking philosophy for this cuvée is to honor the "King of Wines," utilizing fruit from 30-year-old vines planted in the iconic iron-rich, brown limestone soils that give Chambertin its legendary power and longevity.

Wine Description

The 2011 vintage presents a deep, dark ruby color with incredible aromatic intensity. The nose is complex and evolving, offering a mix of dark cherries and blackcurrants layered with savory notes of leather, licorice, and undergrowth. On the palate, the wine is powerful and full-bodied, showing a massive structure that is characteristic of this site. It is defined by its firm, elegant tannins and a persistent, earthy finish that lingers with hints of spice and concentrated fruit.

The wine is 100% Pinot Noir, hand-harvested and fermented in traditional open oak vats. It was aged for 10 to 12 months in 100% new French oak barrelssourced from Louis Latour's own cooperage. This 2011 release has an ABV of 13.5% and is recognized as a wine with exceptional cellaring potential, often requiring a decade or more to reach its peak.

Accolades

• 94 Points – Wine Spectator: "A powerhouse, with a foundation of dense, grainy tannins supporting cherry, black currant, iron, and earth flavors... Best from 2018 through 2035."

• 93 Points – James Suckling: Noted for its balance of fruit intensity and traditional Burgundian structure.

• 18/20 – Jancis Robinson: Praised for its aromatic depth and "serious" character.

Food Pairing

This Grand Cru requires rich, flavorful dishes that can match its intensity:

• Meats: Ideal with roasted venison, wild boar, or a classic Boeuf Bourguignon made with high-quality wine.

• Game: Pairs perfectly with feathered game, such as pheasant or woodcock, served with a mushroom sauce.

• Cheese: Complements mature and pungent cheeses like Epoisses or Soumaintrain.

Vintage Quality

The 2011 vintage in Burgundy was "the year of the vigneron," requiring significant work in the vineyard due to an early spring and a variable summer. While not as universally powerful as 2009 or 2010, the 2011 reds are noted for their freshness, transparency of terroir, and aromatic charm. In the top sites like Chambertin, the low yields resulted in wines with surprising concentration. Now with over a decade of age, the 2011 Chambertin is entering its prime drinking window, as the initially firm tannins have softened to reveal the wine's complex, earthy secondary characters.