Chateau Lafite-Rothschild 2008

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château Lafite-Rothschild 2008

Tasting

Color
Purple-violet color.

Nose
Dominated by red fruit, the nose gradually reveals a beautiful complexity.

Palate
The palate expresses the classicism of Pauillac with a solid and coherent structure. The tannins, more coated than in the solar vintages, offer great elegance. The finish, sapid and persistent, reveals a harmonious and irresistible wine.

The structure and tannic frame of a 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

After a winter marked by some spring frosts, the growing season required increased surveillance due to a low-productive flowering, persistent humidity, and a moderately warm summer. Fortunately, a sunny September allowed for optimal ripening of the grapes, resulting in late harvests, staggered from October 1st to 16th depending on the grape varieties.

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. The wine is then aged in oak barrels for 20 months.

Blend

Cabernet sauvignon (83%), merlot (13%) and cabernet franc (4%).