The 2018 Lafon Rochet is an exquisite Bordeaux Blend that truly exemplifies the elegance and complexity of wines from the St Estephe region in Bordeaux, France. With its deep garnet-purple color, this wine immediately captures the eye and sets the stage for a captivating tasting experience.
On the nose, the 2018 Lafon Rochet delivers an impactful bouquet of baked blackberries, warm cassis, and black cherry compote. These luscious fruit aromas are complemented by subtle hints of chargrill, tar, and tobacco leaf, adding layers of depth and intrigue. A delicate waft of wild mushrooms adds a touch of earthiness to the aromatic profile, further enhancing the wine's complexity.
The medium to full-bodied palate of the 2018 Lafon Rochet is a true delight, with black fruit preserves taking center stage. The wine displays a beautiful balance between fruitiness and earthy accents, supported by firm yet chewy tannins. Just enough freshness uplifts the palate, while the wine finishes with exceptional length, leaving a lasting impression.
Renowned wine critic Lisa Perrotti-Brown awarded this wine a score of 91, praising its rich flavors and chewy tannins. She describes the finish as "great length, if a little chewy." Wine Spectator also impressed, giving it a score of 92 and highlighting its seductive qualities, with dark plum and blackberry preserve notes leading the way.
Vinous, a highly respected wine publication, awarded the 2018 Lafon Rochet an impressive score of 94. The reviewer notes the wine's complex bouquet, medium-bodied palate, and slightly chalky tannins. They particularly appreciate the precision and silky-smooth finish, which sets this vintage apart.
James Suckling, another esteemed wine critic, awards the wine a score of 94, describing its nose as a blend of blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate, mineral, and earthy undertones. He praises the wine's fleshy and savory texture, layers of flavor, and beautiful length, recommending it for enjoyment after 2025.
Decanter, a respected authority in the wine industry, also gave the 2018 Lafon Rochet a score of 94. The reviewer notes the wine's clear quality, abundance of juice and life, and crunchy blackberry and cassis fruits. They highlight the wine's good slate minerality and hedgerow touches, predicting a promising future for this bottle.
With additional scores of 94 from Jeff Leve, Jeb Dunnuck, and Wine Enthusiast, it is clear that the 2018 Lafon Rochet is a wine of exceptional quality and remarkable aging potential. This rich and flavorful Saint-Estèphe is the epitome of balance, showcasing ripe blackberry fruits, well-integrated tannins, and good acidity. It is a wine that will undoubtedly develop beautifully over time, rewarding those who have the patience to cellar it until at least 2026.
In conclusion, the 2018 Lafon Rochet is a Bordeaux Blend that captures the essence of St Estephe, delivering a harmonious blend of fruit, earth, and elegance. Whether you choose to enjoy it now or cellar it for a few more years, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.