Chateau Lafite, the famous Pauillac property of the Left Bank of the Medoc, began to earn its reputation as a great winemaking estate in the 17th century. Acquiring a strong following in London in the early 18th century, Lafite found its way to the Versailles court, receiving acclaim as the “The King’s Wine”. The reputation did not diminish, achieving a pinnacle when it was ranked a First Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification.

On August 8, 1868, Baron James de Rothschild purchased Chateau Lafite, although he died just three months later leaving Lafite to his three sons. The years that followed were considered a golden age for the estate, producing a rich legacy of remarkable vintages.

Fortunes turned at the end of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, which were turbulent years. The vines suffered both a phylloxeric crisis and mildew. Then there was organized fraud, World War I, followed by the Great Depression, and finally the occupation of France during World War II. After this difficult period, Baron Elie de Rothschild was entrusted with the recovery of the Lafite estate, leading programs to restore the vineyards and the buildings, as well as becoming an active participant in tasting events and the founding of a regional guild.

The recovery and renewal period at Chateau Lafite was continued by his nephew, Baron Eric de Rothschild, who made great strides forward in the management of the estate and in the replanting and restoration of the vineyards. He also extended the horizons of the Domaines through new acquisitions both in France and abroad.

This famous First Growth is often described as perfumed, elegant and delicate, and one of the finest wines in Bordeaux. According to Baron Eric de Rothschild, Chateau Lafite has a beautiful, generous, and kindly soul that turns bare earth into heaven. The blend for this grand vin varies from vintage to vintage, but is typically 80-95% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5-20% Merlot, with the balance from Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

The 2002 Lafite-Rothschild, a sublime offering from the renowned Bordeaux region, particularly the Pauillac sub-region in France, is a tasteful blend that calls for sophisticated palates. This red Bordeaux blend is a classic representation of Lafite's prestige, exhibiting the quintessential elegance the producer is known for.

One is immediately struck by its surprisingly dark color. The concentrated bouquet is an intriguing interplay of blackberry, sous-bois, and brine, with riveting hints of freshly brewed espresso that surface over time. On the palate, it strikes a medium body, introducing a slight chewiness upon the first sip. The wine's briny and saline character is distinct, with a rustic tannic profile that is rather appealing. It is only towards the finish that the limitations of the growing season seem to peek through.

This wine, with an alcohol content of 12.5%, is pure and dense, possessing a deep ruby/purple color that is truly inviting. It flaunts an array of flavors, from lead pencil shavings/graphite to black currants, plums, and crushed rocks/mineral. The fruit definition is excellent, leading to a long finish. Its power and density may not be apparent at first, but they build incrementally in the mouth.

With a cork closure, this wine is described as brimming with crushed berries, currants, and spices, with notable tobacco notes. Its body is full and the tannins gorgeously velvety. The finish is a delightful stretch of pretty fruit. This Lafite is racy yet elegant, and very classy.

The 2002 Lafite-Rothschild is a brilliant and elegant wine that continues to develop and intrigue, promising a rewarding experience with further cellaring. It is a perfect marriage of power and sophistication, a wine that is both vibrant and complex. It is a true testament to Lafite-Rothschild's mastery of winemaking.