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 2014 Lafite-Rothschild is a Bordeaux Blend that hails from the renowned Pauillac region in Bordeaux, France. This red wine exudes elegance and sophistication, capturing the essence of its prestigious producer, Lafite-Rothschild.

In the glass, this wine showcases a deep, ruby red color that is visually captivating. The aromas that waft from the glass are intense and mesmerizing. Notes of stones, oyster shell, blackcurrants, and mushrooms intertwine, creating a complex and enticing bouquet.

On the palate, this wine truly shines. It is full-bodied, dense, and powerful, with an abundance of blackberry flavors that burst onto the taste buds. The concentration and structure of this wine are truly remarkable, with enormous tension and a core of dark tannins that will ensure its longevity. Amidst the power and structure, there is also a wealth of fruit, with concentrated blackberry and black-plum flavors that add depth and complexity.

This wine has received high praise from esteemed critics. Wine Spectator awarded it an impressive score of 95, describing it as having a pure and energetic core of cassis, bitter plum, and raspberry coulis flavors. Wine Enthusiast bestowed a score of 97, emphasizing the wine's enormous tension, structure, and concentration. James Suckling, with a score of 98, praised the wine's intense aromas and powerful finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also gave it a score of 95, noting its opulent bouquet and crisp tannins. Decanter awarded it a score of 95 as well, highlighting its lovely floral nose and perfect harmony. Finally, Jeff Leve, with a score of 96, commended the wine's elegant and fresh nature, as well as its energy and purity.

Overall, the 2014 Lafite-Rothschild is an exceptional wine that showcases the very best of Pauillac. With its depth, concentration, and impeccable structure, this wine promises to age gracefully for many years to come. It is a true masterpiece from one of Bordeaux's most iconic producers.