Chateau Lafite-Rothschild 1995

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château Lafite-Rothschild 1995

Tasting

Color
Elegant and deep color.

Nose
Beautiful complex nose marked by notes of cedar.

Palate
Frank attack, evolving towards a beautiful roundness. The finish, long and persistent, is supported by structured tannins.

The finesse and balance of a great 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 is a Pauillac wine from a terroir with an exceptional location, with a vineyard divided into three major areas. 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 watches over vines planted on fine and deep gravel soils with sands on the surface while the limestone subsoil allows excellent drainage.

The vintage

An exceptional summer, reminiscent of 1989 and 1990, with generous sunshine. Brief but moderate rain on September 7 did not cause dilution, the vine suffering from drought. Good weather returned in mid-September, promoting beautiful ripening.

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 (74%), merlot (18%) and cabernet franc (8%).