Château Lafite Rothschild 2021 is a red Pauillac produced on the northern edge of the Médoc. The blend consists almost entirely of Cabernet Sauvignon, with a very small amount of Merlot and a trace of Petit Verdot harvested from approximately 100-year-old vines. This composition perfectly captures the story of that vintage. The 2021 Bordeaux vintage began with heavy rain and cold weather, with nearly 700 mm of rain falling in Pauillac, a period spanning from October to February, and spring frosts damaging vineyards throughout the region. Flowering began late, around the middle of June, and veraison arrived even later. The harvest at Lafite took place from the 22nd of September to the 8th of October, yielding 34 hectoliters per hectare, a figure significantly lower than yields during bumper harvests.
Across Bordeaux, the harvest was meager. At 377 million liters, it was a 14% decrease from 2020 and more than one-fifth lower than the 10-year average. The combination of lower grape yields, a late ripening period, and the Cabernet-dominant blend resulted in a classic Lafite style rather than a lush one. Structure stands out more than fruitiness, and cedar notes are more prominent than jammy flavors.
2021 was also the first year this winery began its transition to organic farming.
Robert Parker (96)
To my palate, the 2021 Lafite Rothschild has emerged as the finest of the Pauillac first growths this year. Wafting from the glass with aromas of dark minty berries mingled with notions of iris, licorice and cigar box, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a velvety attack that segues into an elegantly dense and structured mid-palate that's nicely framed by sweet but abundant tannins, concluding with a long, penetrating finish.
James Suckling (98)
Polished and refined with a firm, fine and linear tannin structure. Harmonious. Perfumed violets, roses and subtle licorice. All in balance here, with precise layers of black fruit, minerals and pencil lead. Rather seamless. Firm, yet fine and sleek to the end. Very classy. Fine-velvet texture. 96% cabernet sauvignon, 3% merlot and 1% petit verdot.
Vinous (97)
The 2021 Lafite-Rothschild is every bit as exceptional as it was from barrel. The high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon comes through loud and clear. All the elements are so well balanced. The 2021 is dark, racy and full of Lafite sensuality, all kicked up by the natural intensity of the year. Dark red/purplish fruit, mint, lavender and rose petal are all on display. It’s not a showy wine, and it will need quite a bit of time to fully reveal its charms.
