Nestled amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of Pauillac, Château Lafite Rothschild stands as a legend in the realm of fine wine. Its iconic label and meticulously crafted Bordeaux offer a tapestry of elegance, finesse, and harmony, a stark contrast to the bolder styles of some other First Growths.
In the glass, the Lafite Rothschild boasts a deep purple hue, hinting at the complexity within. On the nose, a symphony of well-defined aromas unfolds, weaving notes of spice, wood, and ripe dark fruit. On the palate, the wine's elegance truly shines. Fine tannins provide a subtle structure, while a balanced interplay of fruit and oak creates a harmonious experience.
Critical Acclaim:
Critic tasting note: (1985 vintage) "Light, tart, short, cranberries, and cassis with loads of pyrazine notes, spice, and assorted, greenery. There is a sense of rustic class and soft tannins, which helps the score a bit, but this is not my favorite vintage of Lafite. And no, time is not going to improve this wine. It is already close to 40 years of age. Drink from 2024-2034." - 90/100, Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider
Key Details:
- Region or Appellation: Pauillac, Medoc / Bordeaux / France
- Classification: 1er Grand Cru Classé
- Blend: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot & 10% Cabernet Franc
- Alcohol ABV: 12 - 12.5%
- Sweetness: Dry
- Winemaking: 18 to 20 months in 100% new barrels, French oak
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Vintage Notes: The 1985 vintage signals a return to excellent quality. The same weather conditions as in 1982, i.e. continuous sunshine from July to September, produced similar results: grapes with thick skins, with condensed, supple tannins and intense aromas. These grapes have produced full-bodied, velvety wines, with complex bouquets, possibly even more elegant than the 1982 vintage. Ideal weather in September made 1985 an exceptional vintage, even recalling the Médoc’s fabulous wines of 1953.
