Château Lafite-Rothschild is an important, and perhaps the most recognised, first growth in the Médoc are of Bordeaux. Situated to the north of the town of Pauillac and adjacent to fellow first growth, Château Mouton-Rothschild, the château itself is a 16th century manor house. Château Lafite was listed first in the 1855 Classification, although whether this was actually ordered by rank remains controversial. Nevertheless, Lafite continues to achieve the highest prices of the médoc first growths.
With around 103 hectares planted to vines, Château Lafite has three individual vineyard sites: the main vineyard which surrounds the château, the Carruades vineyard and a smaller plot based in St Estephe. Cabernet sauvignon dominates the plantings, taking up about 70% and merlot follows with about 20% planted. The vines are grown on the typical gravel soils of the médoc and no vine under 10 years old is allowed in the final grand vin blend. There are numerous old vine sites across the estate, the oldest at around 115 years and an average vine age around 40 years old.
The grand vin and second wine, Carruades de Lafite, are aged in barrels which are made on site, for between 18 to 20 months. Carruades generally has a high proportion of merlot included in the blend. The grand vin has an image of elegance and feminity, without being fragile. Its reputation across the world is well established, with a consistently high demand for this illustrious wine.
Just Released
2008 Château Lafite-Rothschild
Showing restrained cedary cassis and graphite aromas. Very streamlined, revealing a firm core of deep, ripe fruit framed in subtle oak. A vibrant, crisp style with marked minerality and rich yet bright curranty fruit. The finesse of the tannins lends an appealing silky texture, leading to a long, positive finish. A very refined Lafite that proves reminiscent of the 2004, given its focus and linear nature. Classically proportioned, with fine potential.
Leave 2018 / 2034
The Wines of Château Lafite-Rothschild
Château Lafite-Rothschild
Up to 25 thousand cases are produced each year and the wine is aged in 100% new barrels, made on site by the châteaux cooper. Generally 80% to 95% cabernet sauvignon is used, although the 1994 vintage defied the trend by including 99%. The most famous feature of the cellar is the chais, a large octagonal chamber designed by Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill, where the wines can be aged longterm in barrels.
Available vintages of Château Lafite-Rothschild 
Carruades de Château Lafite
Including vines from both the Carruades vineyard, where it takes its name, and young vines from the main grand vin plot. 20 to 30 thousand cases are produced each year and the wine is aged for 18 months, like the grand vin. The higher percentage of merlot gives Carruades its individual character but it retains the elegance and ageing structure of Château Lafite.
Available vintages of Carruades de Château Lafite