Domaine Vincent LatourProducer from Burgundy, France

Vincent Latour is a notable name in Burgundy, particularly in the Meursault region of the Côte de Beaune. The Latour family's winemaking heritage dates back to 1792, with a long-standing tradition of producing some of the world’s finest white wines. The family’s expertise has been passed down through generations, with each one contributing to the evolution and reputation of their wines.

In 1998, the estate saw a pivotal change when Jean Latour passed the reins to his son Vincent and his mother, marking the creation of Domaine Jean Latour Labille et Fils. Vincent's wife, Cécile, joined the family business in 2004 after completing her studies at the CFPPA in Beaune, further strengthening the team's winemaking expertise. Together, they expanded the estate to include prestigious appellations such as Pommard, St Aubin Village, Volnay, Chassagne-Montrachet, and several Meursault Villages.

To diversify their portfolio, Vincent and Cécile established a trading company, Maison Vincent Latour, in 2008, allowing them to include additional prestigious wines like Puligny-Montrachet, St Romain, and Corton-Charlemagne. The estate officially became Domaine Vincent Latour in 2011 after Vincent's mother retired, solidifying its identity under Vincent’s leadership.

In 2019, the estate underwent significant modernization with the construction of three new cellars and a vat house, aimed at further improving wine quality and enhancing operational efficiency. These updates reflect Vincent and Cécile’s commitment to both tradition and innovation, ensuring that their wines continue to stand out in the competitive Burgundy landscape.

Vincent Latour: The Terroir of Meursault

The terroir of Meursault plays a fundamental role in the wines of Vincent Latour. The region is known for its limestone-rich soils, which are perfect for Chardonnay, the predominant grape variety. These soils, combined with ideal slopes, sun exposure, and excellent drainage, contribute to grapes that exhibit exceptional balance and minerality.

Vincent Latour’s wines are celebrated for their ability to express the unique characteristics of this terroir. The careful management of the vineyards preserves the natural qualities of the grapes, resulting in wines that are fresh and vibrant, with a complex, mineral-driven profile. The restrained use of oak during the ageing process ensures that the wines retain their purity and express the true essence of Meursault.

Winemaking at Vincent Latour

Vincent Latour’s approach to winemaking is a thoughtful blend of tradition and modernity. The wines are aged for 12 months in oak barrels, followed by an additional 4 to 6 months in vats. Minimal new oak is used to avoid overwhelming the delicate flavours and aromas that are characteristic of Meursault. This restrained use of oak allows the small amount that is present to contribute subtle notes of nuttiness and toast, enhancing the wine’s bouquet without overshadowing its inherent qualities.

A key aspect of their winemaking technique is the use of large 600-litre barrels, known as demi-muids. These larger barrels help produce wines that are straight, pure, and elegant, with a refined minerality. By avoiding the practice of batonnage, where the lees are stirred to add richness and texture, Vincent Latour ensures that the wines remain fresh and focused, highlighting the natural expression of their terroir.

Wines produced at Domaine Vincent Latour:

Meursault 1er Cru Les Perrières - 0.18 Ha
Meursault 1er Cru Charmes - 0.33 Ha
Meursault 1er Cru Poruzots - 0.88 Ha
Meursault 1er Cru Gouttes d’Or - 0.1 Ha
Chassagne 1er Cru Morgeot - 0.22 Ha
Meursault Grands Charrons - 0.93 Ha
Meursault Narvaux - 0.4 Ha
Meursault Pellands - 0.18 Ha
Meursault Clos des Magny - 0.93 Ha
St-Aubin 1er Cru Les Frionnes - 0.19 Ha
St Aubin - 0.21 Ha
Meursault 1er Cru Cras Red - 0.19
Meursault Red - 0.56 Ha
Pommard  Red - 0.18 Ha
Volnay Red - 0.47 Ha