Château Lafite-Rothschild 2004

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château Lafite-Rothschild 2004

Tasting

Nose
Initially discreet, the nose gradually reveals slightly candied fruity notes.

Palate
A broad attack gives way to a palate whose balance, elegance, and structure harmoniously stretch to a persistent and silky finish.

A suave and ideally balanced 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 surface sands while the limestone subsoil allows excellent drainage.

The vintage

After a rainy winter and a cold spring, the summer was marked by dry and hot months of June and July, followed by a milder August and a sunny but moderate September. This slow maturation pushed back the harvest to the end of September, requiring patience to reach optimal maturity. The harvest took place from September 24 to October 14, starting with the merlot, followed by the cabernet franc, the cabernet sauvignon, and the petit verdot.

Vinification and aging

Parcel vinification in wooden, stainless steel, or cement vats. Alcoholic fermentation accompanied by regular pump-overs. Maceration of about 22 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.

Blend

Cabernet sauvignon (89%), merlot (10%) and petit verdot (1%).