Château Lafite-Rothschild 1986

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château Lafite-Rothschild 1986

Tasting

Nose
Complex, the nose is seduced by its intense notes of black fruits.

Palate
The palate combines freshness, amplitude and persistence.

An expressive Pauillac wine with beautiful density

The property

First among the classified growths in 1855 of Bordeaux, the Château Lafite-Rothschild is a lord on its gravel lands. Carrying a long viticultural tradition initiated in 1620, it has asserted itself over the centuries as a true standard-bearer of the Pauillac appellation on the left bank of the Bordeaux region. Indeed, from Cardinal Richelieu to the then President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, the great personalities of this world have fallen under the charm of these great wines with a unique soul and unparalleled refinement.

The vineyard

Château Lafite-Rothschild benefits from an exceptional location with a vineyard divided into three major areas of Pauillac. From the hills surrounding the château to the Carruades plateau to the west and a plot in the neighboring commune of Saint-Estèphe, Château Lafite-Rothschild oversees a total of 112 ha of vines planted on deep, fine gravel soils with surface sands, while the limestone subsoil allows excellent drainage.

The vintage

After a late bud break, the warm and dry months of May and June allowed to catch up. Rain in early September promoted homogeneous ripening, with less rainfall in Pauillac than elsewhere in Bordeaux. The good weather persisting until the end of the harvest ensured optimal maturation, combining controlled humidity and constant sunshine.

Vinification and aging

Parcel vinification in wooden, stainless steel or cement vats. Alcoholic fermentation accompanied by regular pumping over. Maceration of about 20 days depending on the vintages. Following malolactic fermentation, barreling in French oak barrels from the property's cooperage. Individual tasting of barrels to select the most qualitative for the final blend. Aging for 20 months in barrels (100% new).

Blend

Cabernet sauvignon (69%), cabernet franc (16%) and merlot (15%).