Carruades De Lafite 2021

Château Lafite Rothschild’s second wine, Carruades de Lafite presents similar characteristics to the Grand Vin, but with its own personality linked to a higher proportion of Merlot and to specific plots that are used to produce Carruades. The name comes from the Carruades plateau, a group of plots acquired in 1845 just next to the vines on the Château hilltop.

“The deep, dark, ruby-red color is almost opaque & it holds well to the rim. Aromas of cassis & plum have a lovely minty freshness that is tamed by graphite overtones. The acidity is fresh & the tannins are firm, fine & gripping, without being astringent. Juicy, lively red-fruit dominates the mid-palate & a seam of graphite runs through it. Alcohol is balanced & the finish is quite long.”  ( 04/22 DCAMW )

Blend: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot

95 Points – James Suckling

The currants, cedar and violets are very bright on the nose, with sandalwood undertones and pencil shavings. This is medium-bodied, beautiful and firm, with finesse and real Lafite character for their second wine. Racy at the end. Drinkable now but even better in three or four years.