Lafite Rothschild 2014

The 2014 Lafite-Rothschild has an incredibly fruit-driven bouquet with layers of black cherries, cassis, raspberry preserve and menthol aromas all beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with a sweet core of intense red berry fruit laced with white pepper, sage and a hint of fennel. The balance here is exquisite and the manner in which it fans out on the final third is just glorious. You could actually broach this now, it is so drinkable, but it has the substance to suggest long-term ageing. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. 2024 - 2055

The aromas of stones, oyster shell, blackcurrants and mushrooms are very intense. Full-bodied, dense and powerful with lots of blackberries. Great finish. Super energy and depth. Try in 2022. Fascinating.

Deep garnet-brick in color, the 2014 Lafite Rothschild seems a little tired and tobaccoy, with a core of cassis, baked plums, and leather followed by hints of anise and underbrush. The medium-bodied palate is chewy , with evolving black fruit and a savory finish.

Tasted blind. A bit worked, soft and loose but with lots of vegy quality and some mintiness. Rather forward. Tea leaves.
Drink 2023-2043

Such was the demand from Asia a few years ago that Lafite was selling at much higher prices that the other First Growths. However, we are now back to reality. 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc. the Merlot was picked 22nd-27th September and the Cabernets from 29th September to 8th October. Deep colour. Very pure blue and black fruit on the nose which is densely aromatic. There is added complexity from exotic all spcie and vanilla, but this is all about the purity of Cabernet fruit which is charged but elegant. Very Lafite. The palate has a rich and sweet entry but structure from the super-refined tannins and acidity make it fresh and clean at the same time. Real clarity, purity and precision. Focused and long, with a little wood smoke and spice. There is a dense core of blackcurrant and blueberry fruit, but the precision is what makes this wine and gives it real typicity. A return to form for Lafite after a difficult 2013.

Reserved for now, but the core of cassis, bitter plum and raspberry coulis flavors is pure and energetic, while extra black tea, iron and singed alder notes fill in steadily through the finish. This has a very focused, streamlined feel overall, yet there's serious depth for the cellar. Best from 2020 through 2035. 16,000 cases made.

The nose has a fragrant floral charm spring violets and the start of the palate has bilberry and bramble freshness lots of bright fruit. Rich in the middle the sweet cassis supported by fine tannins the back palate fleshy and supple. There is an underlying freshness and brightness but the finish has depth with black fruited richness. 2027-40

A wine that proves that Bordeaux doesn't have to be full bodied to have concentration and ageing potential, this is a gloriously refined red that doesn't show its 100% new oak. Stylish tannins, fine red and black fruits and palate-cleansing acidity are framed by attractive oak. One of the wines of the year.