2022 Chateau Lafite Rothschild Premier Cru Classe, Pauillac 1x3L

Vinous 98

The 2022 Lafite-Rothschild bides its time in the glass. Head winemaker Eric Kohler told me that this contains the highest proportion of vin de presse ever at 17%, and the alcohol is 13.6%. The 2022 is initially quite reticent, but after four or five minutes, it unfolds with scents of blackberry, cedar, graphite and a touch of inkwell. Like a few other wines in this vintage, the mineralité only reveals itself later. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-boned tannins, the signature trait of a first-rate Lafite. It is adorned with unerring purity and elegance, very focused with a beguiling symmetry. Quintessentially Lafite Rothschild, this is as precise as a Swiss watch with just the right degree of salinity to keep the saliva flowing on the finish. Just a magnificent First Growth destined to give immense pleasure. [Neal Martin, 02/01/2025]

Anticipated maturity: 2032-2075

JancisRobinson.com 18.5

94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot. 33 hl/ha. Cask sample.Precise and long with sublimated force. Darker colour than usual. Deep and fathomless in terms of expression, dark-fruit and graphite notes dominating. Impressive fruit on the palate, the tannins powerful but suave and fully integrated. Long life ahead. (JL) [04/18/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2034-2055