Château Lafite-Rothschild 1998

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château Lafite-Rothschild 1998

Tasting

Color
Deep and dark color, expressing the power of the terroir.

Nose
Beautiful balance between woody, fruity and spicy notes.

Palate
Rich and full-bodied, the palate is marked by its persistence. The silky and long finish underlines the aging potential of this vintage.

A rich and full-bodied Pauillac wine

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 sands on the surface while the limestone subsoil allows excellent drainage.

The vintage

A great vintage marked by a warm and dry start to the year. After a cool and dry July slowing down the vine, August experiences record heat, promoting rapid veraison but causing berry scorching. The vine stops its growth early, and by mid-September, the analyses reveal exceptional levels, comparable to the legendary vintages of 1995 and 1996. The harvest, from September 24 to October 10, is accelerated due to the humidity of late September, guaranteeing grapes rich in phenolic compounds.

Vinification and aging

Parcel vinification in wooden, stainless steel or cement vats. Alcoholic fermentation accompanied by regular pump-overs. 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 the barrels to select the most qualitative ones for the final blend. Aging for 20 months in barrels (100% new).

Blend

Cabernet sauvignon (81%) and merlot (19%).