Product Description
Château Lafite Rothschild Premier Cru Classé Pauillac 2021 is a stunning example of Bordeaux’s legendary terroir, showcasing the finesse and power that have made Lafite one of the world’s most revered estates. This exceptional vintage speaks of its origins on the mythical plateau of Lafite, where Cabernet Sauvignon thrives, dominating the blend with 96% of the composition. The 2021 vintage has delivered a wine of remarkable freshness and density, balanced by the silky smoothness and complexity typical of Lafite’s Cabernet-based wines. The Merlot from the estate struggled in comparison, with only a small proportion making it into the blend, highlighting the dominance of the estate’s prized Cabernets.
The wine undergoes meticulous vinification, with each plot’s grapes fermented separately to ensure optimal extraction of flavour and character. Aged for 15 months in new French oak barrels crafted at Lafite’s own cooperage, the wine develops its signature structure, complexity, and ageing potential. With an expressive bouquet of fresh fruit, elegant toasty notes, and a palate of power, finesse, and exceptional length, the Château Lafite Rothschild 2021 offers a glimpse into the estate’s exceptional craftsmanship and visionary approach to winemaking. A wine built for ageing, it will continue to evolve and reveal more layers of complexity for decades to come.
Maker
Château Lafite Rothschild stands as one of the most iconic and revered wineries in Bordeaux, with a history that spans centuries. Located in the heart of the Pauillac appellation, Lafite is shaped by an extraordinary terroir that has been honed by generations of dedicated winemakers. The estate’s vineyards are spread across three primary areas, including the famous Carruades plateau, renowned for its exceptional clay-gravel soils, and the neighbouring Saint-Estèphe region. This carefully curated combination of unique terroirs, including optimal sun exposure and well-drained soils, allows for the production of wines with exceptional balance, depth, and longevity. The artistry behind every bottle of Lafite is driven by a legacy of craftsmanship, with a commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring the land’s preservation for future generations. Lafite’s attention to detail in both vineyard management and winemaking has earned it a position as a leader in the Bordeaux wine world, consistently producing wines that speak of elegance, complexity, and heritage.
Philosophy
At Château Lafite Rothschild, winemaking is an art passed down through generations, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly to create exceptional wines that reflect the soul of the land. Lafite’s philosophy is deeply rooted in precision and resilience, with a focus on crafting wines that embody the unique characteristics of their terroir. The estate’s approach is centered around an unwavering commitment to quality, where every step in the winemaking process is carefully considered—from the selection of vines to the aging in French oak barrels. In addition to their traditional methods, Lafite continues to innovate, embracing sustainable viticulture and climate-resilient practices to adapt to an ever-changing world. The result is wines that not only showcase the estate’s timeless legacy but also speak to the future, offering a harmonious balance of power, finesse, and the promise of extraordinary ageing potential. Lafite’s wines are a testament to the unique terroir of Pauillac, a place where nature and human craftsmanship come together to create something truly exceptional.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Fresh Fruit & Elegant Toast
The nose is initially dominated by fresh fruit, with vibrant aromas of red and black berries, followed by elegant toasty notes from the oak, which add complexity and depth to the fragrance.
Palate
Power & Finesse
On the palate, the wine opens with an immediate sensation of power, perfectly balanced with a lively vivacity. The fruit is bright and fresh, giving way to the structured tannins and a subtle graininess, characteristic of Lafite’s refined style.
Finish
Fresh, Velvety & Age-Worthy
The finish is marked by a refreshing sense of balance, with the velvety woodiness and fine tannins providing a long, satisfying end. This wine showcases excellent ageing potential, promising to develop even further with time.
Lafite has a soul, a beautiful, generous, kindly soul. Lafite turns bare earth into heaven. Lafite is harmony, a harmony between man and nature, because without our magnificent winegrowers, nothing would be accomplished. - Baron Eric de Rothschild
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
Country - France
Region - Pauillac, Bordeaux
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12.5%