Chateau Latour, Bordeaux

Castle and Vinyard near Bordeaux

CC BY-SA 2.0 / BillBl

Château Latour is one of the top attractions in Pauillac for wine lovers seeking depth, history, and world-class craftsmanship. With origins stretching back to the Middle Ages, the estate is synonymous with strength and longevity, producing some of the most age-worthy wines in the world. Set near the Gironde estuary, the château’s vineyards benefit from exceptional terroir that shapes the bold, structured style that defines Latour today.

The estate's reputation is built on meticulous winemaking and an uncompromising commitment to quality. From its flagship Grand Vin to the distinguished Les Forts de Latour and the approachable Pauillac de Latour, each bottle reflects centuries of expertise and innovation in Bordeaux viticulture. Visiting Château Latour offers a rare glimpse into the precision behind one of France's most admired estates.

History and Significance of Château Latour
Things to See and Do in Château Latour
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Château Latour
Where to Stay close to Château Latour
Is Château Latour Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Château Latour
Nearby Attractions to Château Latour

History and Significance of Château Latour

Château Latour’s history dates back to at least the 14th century, when a medieval defensive tower-long since vanished-gave the estate its name. By the 17th century, Latour had begun transitioning into a dedicated wine estate, with records noting its wines among the most esteemed in the Médoc.

Its legacy was cemented in 1855, when it was classified as a Premier Cru Classé, a status shared by only four other Bordeaux estates. Over the years, Latour has survived wars, economic shifts, and evolving winemaking trends, emerging each time with its prestige intact. Its unique terroir, enriched by gravel soils and maritime influences, has consistently produced wines renowned for their intensity, structure, and extraordinary ability to age.

In 2012, Château Latour made headlines by withdrawing from the en primeur system, choosing instead to release wines only when ready to drink-further affirming its dedication to excellence and authenticity.

Things to See and Do in Château Latour

A visit to Château Latour typically includes a guided tour through its vineyards, historical buildings, and state-of-the-art winemaking facilities. Guests can explore the iconic circular tower pavilion and learn about Latour’s vineyard management, including its use of organic farming and precision viticulture.

Tastings offer a rare opportunity to experience Latour’s layered, powerful wines, often featuring older vintages released directly from the estate. Walking the grounds provides peaceful views of the surrounding Pauillac vineyards and the nearby Gironde estuary, creating a serene backdrop for a memorable wine-country experience.

How to Get There

Château Latour is located just south of Pauillac, around 50 kilometres northwest of Bordeaux. Most visitors arrive by car, as the estate is in a rural area. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Pauillac station is served by regional trains from Bordeaux, followed by a short taxi ride to the château. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. Travellers from abroad can reach Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport before continuing north to the Médoc. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Bordeaux on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting Château Latour

Best time to visit Château Latour: May to October for vineyard scenery and pleasant weather.
Entrance fee in Euros: Visits are exclusive and by request; pricing varies depending on tour and tasting.
Opening hours: Limited availability; visits must be booked well in advance.
Official website: chateau-latour.com
How long to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours for a full guided tour and tasting experience.
Accessibility: Some areas may have limited accessibility due to historical architecture.
Facilities: Reception area, tasting rooms, restrooms.
Photography tip: Capture the vineyards at sunrise or sunset for beautiful contrasts in the gravel soils.
Guided-tours: Essential-visits are always accompanied by a château guide.
Nearby food options: Pauillac offers several brasseries and gourmet restaurants focused on regional cuisine.

Where to Stay close to Château Latour

For a comfortable stay near the estate, Hôtel de France et d’Angleterre offers river views and easy access to local wineries. For a boutique rural retreat, Logis Château Cordeillan-Bages provides refined rooms and a peaceful ambience among vineyards. Travellers seeking elegant simplicity will enjoy Le Coeur des Vignes, a charming guesthouse surrounded by greenery.

Is Château Latour Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Château Latour is one of the best places to visit in Pauillac for its heritage, architectural charm, and unrivalled wines. Its exclusivity and deep historical roots make it an unforgettable stop for anyone exploring the Médoc wine region.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (64)

Château Latour at 27 Route des Châteaux in Pauillac offers visitors sweeping views of extensive grounds and a top-class hospitality experience when meals or tours are available; guests praise knowledgeable staff, the complex, long-lasting full-bodied wines produced by the estate's terroir, and describe visits as amazing and memorable, though it can be closed on certain days.

Diego Avanzato

3 months ago

"Amazing experience."

Cool萊

8 years ago

"Stu ing Terroir produces very complex and long lasting full body wine .Thanks very much for a knowledgeable staff ."

Okipanda Chan

6 years ago

"Amazing winery... This's not your everyday winery. The level of their hospitality (if you get to visit and have meal here), is top class."

FAQs for Visiting Château Latour

No, all visits must be arranged well in advance.

Yes, but only as part of guided tours, often featuring rare or mature releases.

No, the historic tower no longer exists, but its legacy lives on in the estate’s name and symbolism.

Yes, selections may include carefully aged releases direct from the château.

It is best suited for enthusiasts seeking a deep, curated experience.

Nearby Attractions to Château Latour

Château Pichon Baron: A stunning neighbouring estate known for its dramatic architecture.
Château Lynch-Bages: A popular Pauillac château offering tours, tastings, and a village-style complex.
Port of Pauillac: A peaceful riverside area perfect for a scenic stroll or meal.
Château Mouton Rothschild: Another First Growth with an exceptional art and wine museum.
Médoc vineyards: Scenic routes ideal for cycling or leisurely drives through the region’s grands crus.

The Chateau Latour appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bordeaux!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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