98/100 Wine Enthusiast 97/100 Falstaff 97/100 Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider 96/100 Robert Parker The Wine Advocate
Region or Appellation: Pauillac Medoc / Bordeaux / France
Classification: 1er Grand Cru Classé
Drinking Window: 2031 to 2065 (Robert Parker)
Alcohol ABV: 12.71
Sweetness: Dry
Blend: 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot & 1% Petit Verdot
Maturation: Oaked
Oak Type: French
Closure Type: Cork
Ageing: 15 months in 100% new barrels.
VINTAGE SUMMARY
Romain Gary said that “renewal has always been first and foremost a return to the roots.” There couldn’t have been a finer revelation this year, from what we know how to grow best on the mythical plateau of Lafite: great Cabernets which have dominated the tastings from the écoulages. Freshness and density were already there, in a balancing act that we have grown used to from our great terroirs. This year, they are the ones who spoke their voice more clearly than ever. The dice were therefore loaded against the Merlots from the start, and they paled in comparison: only half a vat from Pointon Gravette, a plot on our legendary Carruades plateau, went into the blend.
WINE MAKING SCHEME
For Lafite's terroir to produce its magic, the vinification process must be carried out with extreme precision. The distribution of the grapes between wooden, stainless steel and concrete vats is determined on the basis of the characteristics of each plot and the grapes’ degree of maturity. Alcoholic fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature with regular pumping over to gently extract all the phenolic compounds. The maceration period is around 22 days. After malolactic fermentation, the wines are transferred to French oak barrels. Lafite has its own cooperage in Pauillac, the Tonnellerie des Domaines, a factor that contributes to its unique style. Every barrel is tasted and only the best are selected for the final blend. The wine is then aged in new oak barrels for 15 months.
Tasting Notes:
Deep red color. The nose is still dominated by fresh fruit and elegant toasty notes. On the palate, an immediate sensation of power, without any excess, follows a fleeting vivacity. The freshness of the finish, the grain of the tannins and the velvety woodiness suggest great ageing potential.
JC Fine Wines offers Free Shipping service for orders over $250 in VIC and orders over $399 in other states excluding NT in Australia. (T&C Apply)
Delivery times depend on your location and the shipping method selected during checkout. Express delivery generally arrives within 1-4 days, while Standard shipping typically takes 2-8 days. If you required a next-day delivery, TNT express service option is available, please be free to contact us if you have any question.
Shipping cost will vary depending on the location, weight and the shipping method you choose. You can see the total shipping cost at the checkout. Please see more details from Shipping Policy & FAQs
JC Fine Wines provides local delivery for order over $200 - Delivery radius up to 15 km. If appicable, option will occur at checkout.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
Unlock Secret Fine Wine List and 5% off
Sign up to Receive 5% off on your first order over $200. Be the first to know about new collections and exclusive offers!
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
