The 2010 Lafite-Rothschild is a Bordeaux blend from the esteemed region of Pauillac in Bordeaux, France. Known for its deep garnet color and remarkable complexity, this wine has garnered high praise from numerous professional reviewers.
John Sweeney of JJ Buckley describes it as "showcasing a spicy peppery nose with notes of raspberry chocolate and black tea." He highlights its "precise palate" and "chalky minerality," though he notes that it is "moderately complex and medium to full bodied" and expresses a desire for a longer finish. Sweeney scores it at 96 points.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, a highly respected publication, awarded this vintage a perfect score of 100. The review by LPB describes it as "a little mute on the nose at this stage," but opening to reveal "warm blackcurrants, baked plums, and boysenberry scents." The wine is noted for its "rock-solid backbone of fantastically ripe, grainy tannins and beautiful freshness, finishing very long and minerally."
Wine Spectator's review by JM also praises the wine, giving it a score of 97 and calling it "rather tight" with "an alluring whiff of cocoa" and "sandalwood, black tea and loam elements." JM suggests that it "seems to be lying in wait for what could be a very long time in the cellar before unfurling fully."
Wine Enthusiast’s review, also awarding it a perfect score of 100, describes the 2010 Lafite-Rothschild as "almost black in color" and "gorgeous, rich and dense." The review emphasizes its "beautiful tannins and fragrant black currant fruits," calling it a "great wine, with huge potential."
James Suckling from jamessuckling.com rates it 99 points, noting that it is "shy and not giving its all at the moment," but describes it as "full and intense with a tightly intertwined tannic and fruit structure." He highlights flavors of "blackberry, currant, cedar, and nutty flavors" with a "great finish."
Neal Martin's Wine Journal, providing a score of 97, mentions its "more exotic but no less compelling bouquet" and "wonderful definition and generosity." The palate is described as "medium-bodied with a sensual, caressing entry."
Decanter gives another perfect score of 100, detailing the vintage's weather conditions and noting the wine's "inky dark colour" and "bright aromas of blackcurrant and spice." The review highlights its "lively and crisp" texture, "firm tannins," and "impressive length."
Finally, Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com, scoring it 97, notes the wine's "strong complex and haunting" nose, but remarks that the "dusty tannins are front and center," suggesting it will need another 10-15 years to fully blossom.
Overall, the 2010 Lafite-Rothschild is a highly acclaimed wine with a strong potential for aging, showcasing complex flavors and a robust structure.