The iconic Château Lafite Rothschild was classified as a first growth in 1855 and has been in the Rothschild family since 1868. Today, Lafite is headed up by Saskia de Rothschild, daughter of long-time steward Baron Eric de Rothschild.
Château Lafite Rothschild is an iconic first-growth property in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France. It achieved its top-tier rank in 1855 and has been in the Rothschild family since 1868. Today, Lafite is headed up by Saskia de Rothschild, daughter of long-time steward Baron Eric de Rothschild.
The property is located at the northern tip of Pauillac, separated by St Estèphe by marshland and the Jalle de Breuil stream. Two areas of the vineyard are particularly notable: the gravel plateau, which is the heart of the grand vin; and the Plateau de Carruades, from which Lafite’s second wine takes its name. The vineyard is planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon (70%), along with Merlot (25%), Cabernet Franc (3%) and Petit Verdot (2%).
A new cellar was completed here in time for the 2011 harvest, with a combination of stainless steel and concrete tanks, of varying sizes. The barrels come from Lafite’s own cooperage, located not far from the property.
In addition to its 110 hectares of vines, the estate has 300 hectares of woods and marshes. The team consider this to be an integral part of the ecosystem.
96 Points James Suckling
The most tannic and textured Carruades ever. Full-bodied, big and powerful. Very, very long. New style?
94 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW
2016 Carruades de Lafite is a blend of 49% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot and has a deep garnet color. It needs a little swirling to release notes of warm blackcurrants, blackberry preserves, and kirsch, followed by hints of cast iron pan, cardamom, and mossy tree bark. Medium-bodied, the palate has a fleshy core of ripe black fruits with fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with lovely purity.