Château Lafite-Rothschild 2020

The spectacular character of a Pauillac wine revealed by Lafite-Rothschild

The estate

A first among the 1855 classified growths of Bordeaux, Château Lafite-Rothschild is a lord upon gravel soils. Bearer of a wine-growing tradition that began in 1620, it has established itself over the centuries as a true standard of the Pauillac appellation on the left bank of the Bordeaux region. Indeed, from Cardinal Richelieu to the then-President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, the great personalities of the world have fallen under the spell of these great wines which possess a unique soul and unparalleled sophistication.

The vineyard

Château Lafite-Rothschild enjoys an exceptional location, with a vineyard divided into three large areas. From the hills surrounding the Château to the Carruades plateau to the west and a plot in the neighbouring town of Saint-Estèphe, Château Lafite-Rothschild watches over a total of 112 hectares of vines planted on fine and deep gravel soil with sandy surfaces, as well as a limestone subsoil which allows for excellent drainage.

The vintage

The 2020 vintage was particularly early at Château Lafite Rothschild throughout the year. The vine growth cycle was ahead of the usual dates. However, harvests did not take place in August as climatic conditions had foreshadowed, but from 9 September with the Merlots. Harvests ended on 29 September, with Anseillan terroirs being later and a steak cooked with vine shoots to celebrate. The harvest was exceptional thanks to its superb quality. The fermentations outlined the wines’ racy yet restrained and classic character. The wonderful balance of the vintages from the 1990s is reflected in the 2020 vintage.