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 2022 Lafite-Rothschild is a remarkable Bordeaux blend that showcases the best of what Pauillac, Bordeaux has to offer. With its deep garnet color, this wine immediately captivates the senses. A single swirl of the glass reveals an enticing array of aromas, including flowers, currants, cherries, smoke, leather, lead pencil, Cuban cigar wrapper, orange rind, and smoke. It is a truly complex and layered bouquet that invites further exploration.

On the palate, this wine exhibits pure, silky elegance. The texture is dreamlike, offering a sensuous experience that is unrivaled. The wine seamlessly transitions from black to red fruits, with waves of orange citrus and refreshing mint notes. The purity of the fruit is striking, and the over 60-second finish is nothing short of seamless. This is a wine that is complete from start to finish, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

The blend of this vintage consists of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot. Notably, the wine includes 17.5% press wine in the blend, setting a record for Lafite. The grapes were harvested between August 31 and September 24, resulting in a yield of 35 hectoliters per hectare. The wine has an alcohol content of 13.6% and a pH of 3.85.

Renowned wine experts have praised the 2022 Lafite-Rothschild, with scores ranging from 97 to 100 points. Critics have described it as a classical Lafite, reminiscent of past vintages like the 1986. It showcases Lafite's signature elegance and strength, with flavors of blackcurrant, tobacco, cedar, and hazelnut. The wine is expected to age beautifully, with a recommended drinking window from 2030 to 2065.

In conclusion, the 2022 Lafite-Rothschild is a true gem from Bordeaux. Its exquisite aromas, silky texture, and impressive longevity make it a standout wine that will undoubtedly delight wine enthusiasts for years to come. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for the future, this wine is a testament to the exceptional winemaking skills of Lafite-Rothschild.