Chateau Lafite Rothschild 2013

Tasting Note Chateau Lafite Rothschild 2013

It offers aromas of cassis and red currant rather than black jam, with hints of cedar, pencil shavings, and a touch of dry graphite. It is medium-bodied and clearly exhibits the characteristics of Cabernet: delicate, slightly lean tannins; lively acidity; and a savory finish that is more about lasting freshness than length. The flavors become slightly richer with exposure to air. However, this is a Lafite Rothschild that's best enjoyed sooner rather than later, and it's drinking well now.

Grape Varieties

The Cabernet Sauvignon variety is almost the sole driver of the 2013 vintage, which explains the graphite notes and taut structure. Blend ratio:

• 98% Cabernet Sauvignon
• 2% Merlot

Cellaring Potential

It is best enjoyed by 2032. The tannins are fine and are already softening; the wine does not have the intensity to warrant long-term aging. Serve at 16-18°C, and store the bottle in a cool, dark place until serving.

About Chateau Lafite Rothschild

When Baron James de Rothschild bought the estate in 1868, Lafite was already at the top of the 1855 classification. Today, the estate is managed by Domaines Barons de Rothschild, and Saskia de Rothschild took over as chairwoman in 2018. Lafite Rothschild is the most restrained of the Pauillac First Growths, almost Burgundy like. Terroir & Climate Lafite Rothschild is characterized by deep gravel deposits overlying Tertiary limestone and marl. Why it matters. The gravel drains quickly and retains heat, allowing Cabernet Sauvignon roots to grow deeper in search of water and for the grapes to ripen evenly. The estate sits on a gravel mound, known locally as a croupe, which rises gently above the surrounding land. The nearby estuary of the Gironde mitigates the frosts and summer heat.

Lafite Rothschild's signature technique is to age the wine for 18-20 months in primarily French oak. The barrels are from the in-house Tonnellerie des Domaines workshop, and the toast and grain are specially selected for this wine. Fermentation takes place in wooden vats, stainless steel and concrete tanks, and malolactic fermentation takes place in tanks before transfer to barrels. Concentration and restraint. This is the hallmark of Lafite Rothschild.

Terroir & Climate

Lafite Rothschild is characterized by fine, deep gravel mixed with sand over a limestone subsoil. Why it matters. The gravel drains quickly and retains heat, allowing Cabernet Sauvignon roots to grow deeper in search of water and for the grapes to ripen evenly. The estate sits on a gravel mound, known locally as a croupe, which rises gently above the surrounding land. The nearby estuary of the Gironde mitigates the frosts and summer heat.

Winemaking

Lafite Rothschild's signature technique is to age the wine for 18-20 months in primarily new French oak. The barrels are from the in-house Tonnellerie des Domaines workshop, and the toast and grain are specially selected for this wine. Fermentation takes place in wooden vats, stainless steel and concrete tanks, and malolactic fermentation takes place in tanks before transfer to barrels. Concentration and restraint. This is the hallmark of Lafite Rothschild.

Food Pairing

Cabernet's firm tannins want to lean on protein and fat. There are a few pairings we would recommend:

• Agneau de Pauillac, simply roasted with garlic and thyme.
• Côte de Boeuf, grilled and served with shallots.
• Beef cheeks braised over low heat, classic Bordelaise style.
• Aged Comté or sheep cheese after the main course.