Carruades de Lafite Rothschild 2022 [in bond ex vat] (6 x 75cl) en primeur landing Spring 2025

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

6 x 75cl * 13.5% ABV * Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

First among the 1855 Bordeaux classified growths, and one of only four now iconic chateaux to gain this status, Château Lafite-Rothschild 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. Entering Château Lafite's cellar is like stepping back into the 18th century, the bearer of a long winegrowing tradition that began in 1620, it has asserted itself over the centuries as a veritable standard bearer of the Pauillac appellation on the left bank of Bordeaux.

The property is located at the northern tip of Pauillac, separated by St Estèphe by marshland and the Jalle de Breuil stream, integral parts of the estates ecosystem. The vineyard of Château Lafite Rothschild comprises three main areas: The slopes around the Château, the Carruades plateau to the west, from which Lafite’s second wine takes its name, and a 4.5-hectare lot in the neighbouring township of Saint-Estèphe. This second wine, Carruades de Lafite, has characteristics similar to those of the Grand Vin, but with slightly more Merlot, which consequently makes it more approachable in its youth.

Drinking 2027 - 2043.

"The vintage is marked by intense spice, with cassis, chocolate, mandarin, greengage, dense tannic architecture, with welome mint leaf and raspberry pip freshness on the finish. Need to sit with this, allow the floral aromatics to uncurl, bitter edge on the finish. A serious, almost sombre Carruades at this point, will reward ageing." 93 points, Jane Anson (April 2023)

"Extremely perfumed with sweet tobacco and blackcurrants as well as cedar and dark chocolate. Aromatic. Medium-bodied with an intense center palate of blackcurrant, orange peel and peaches. Nervy. 53% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot, 4% cabernet franc and 3% petit verdot." 96-97 points, James Suckling

"Aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with hints of cedar box, loamy soil, warm spices, violets and orange zest introduce the 2022 Carruades de Lafite, a medium to full-bodied, bright and velvety blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot." 91-93 points, Wine Advocate (April 2023)

"The second wine of Lafite checks in as 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. This smoking good second wine has more than a little Lafite character and offers ample red and black fruits, notes of tobacco, graphite, and leafy herbs, medium to full-bodied richness, silky, polished tannins, and a great finish. As with the Grand Vin, it's concentrated, powerful, and flawlessly balanced." 93-95 points, Jeb Dunnuck (April 2023)