2022, Carruades de Lafite, Pauillac

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc.

The second wine of 1st Growth Chateau Lafite Rothschild.

The 2022 Carruades de Lafite is a real showstopper. I don't remember tasting a Carruades quite like the 2022, a wine that combines the richness of the year with tons of supporting structure. Super-ripe red-fleshed fruit, blood orange, mint, cinnamon and rose petal all race across the palate, supported by bright citrus-driven acids that keep the flavours vibrant. I can't wait to see how this turns out. 92-94 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.

Aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with hints of cedar box, loamy soil, warm spices, violets and orange zest introduce the 2022 Carruades de Lafite, a medium to full-bodied, bright and velvety blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. 91-93 William Kelley, Wine Advocate.

The vintage is marked by intense spice, with cassis, chocolate, mandarin, greengage, dense tannic architecture, with welcome mint leaf and raspberry pip freshness on the finish. Need to sit with this, allow the floral aromatics to uncurl, bitter edge on the finish. A serious, almost sombre Carruades at this point, will reward ageing. 93 Jane Anson

Drinking Window: 2027 - 2041