Lafite-Rothschild 2016

Château Lafite 2016 / This offers the best of both sides of Pauillac, with a deep, deep well of dark currant, fig, blackberry and black cherry paste flavors forming a lush side while a series of I-beams made of graphite and iron provide the rigid structure. The two sides meld, pulling in extra sweet tobacco, smoldering cast iron, juniper and savory notes on the finish, leaving a mouthwatering feel. A real stunner. Best from 2025 through 2045.

2016 Lafite behaved like a monster moving with ballerina steps, very potent on the nose and palate with striking richness, complexity and length. The nose of Lafite, whether the wine is old or young, is always so sensual and captivating. Unlimited future awaits and this wine can live forever. Bull's eye! 100p. 92% Cabernet Sauvignon + 8% Merlot.

The 2016 Lafite-Rothschild is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot picked from 23 September until 12 October with the Cabernet Sauvignon (and unused Petit Verdot). It has 13.3% alcohol, a pH of 3.65 and the IPT of 74. Matured in 100% new oak, it has a fresh and vibrant bouquet whilst retaining the classicism of this First Growth. This is more subtle than Mouton-Rothschild or Latour, which is always the case at en primeur, yet there is a brooding intensity that draws you in as it unveils some gorgeous blackberry and graphite aromas. The palate is just superb. This has more density, more vigor, more depth and you could even argue more ambition than the 2015 Lafite-Rothschild showed last year. It gently grips the mouth with unerring focus and symmetry, just a touch of spiciness developing with a long, saline finish that lingers two minutes after the wine has departed. Lafite-Rothschild always develops and meliorates in barrel during its élevage and I suspect this will ultimately turn out to be a regal Lafite-Rothschild. 96-98p

Deep colour. Intense cassis, espresso, chocolate with violet notes. Supple almost silky textured wine with beautiful pure cassis inky flavours, lacy yet vigorous extra fine tannins and slight bitter chinotto, blackcurrant pastille notes at the finish. Very beautiful Lafite with understated power and refinement. A peacock tail finish. Very good. Great wine. Tasted at Ch Lafite Rothschild. 99 points

An almost magic wine. Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Convincing nose, initially slightly closed, very elegant fruit, blackcurrants, blackberries and sweet elderberries. Discreet spiciness and delicate toasting aroma in99+the background. Dense structure, intense and ripe tannins, excellent and pure fruit, discreet spiciness, a wine with great precision. One of the great vintages of Lafite in perfect balance with perfect finesse. 

Ruby. Scented, red berries, anise, blueberries, floral notes, violets, tight nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh, fruity, detailed, elegant and nuanced, layered, refined, blueberries, cassis and a light red fruity note, firmer finish, long. 97-99