Château Lafon-Rochet 2021

A fresh and aromatic red wine from Saint-Estèphe

The estate

The origins of Château Lafon-Rochet date back to the 17th century. Located in the Saint-Estèphe appellation, Château Lafon-Rochet distinguished itself in 1855 by gaining the title of Grand Cru Classe. In 1960, Guy Tesseron acquired the property. Thanks to the hard work and passion of Guy Tesseron, Lafon-Rochet gradually rose to the top of the Saint-Estèphe appellation. Basile Tesseron, Michel Tesseron's son, took over the running of the family estate from 2007 until September 2021, when the businessman and founder of the Foncia Group, Jacky Lorenzetti, acquired the estate. Jacky Lorenzetti owns several estates on the left-bank of Bordeaux, Château Lilian-Ladouys (Saint-Estèphe), Château Pédesclaux (Pauillac) and also co-owns Château d'Issan (Margaux).

The vineyard

With its golden yellow country-style chartreuse, Lafon-Rochet is today a true standard of the Saint-Estèphe appellation. The vineyard extends over 40 hectares, superbly situated in the Saint-Estèphe appellation. The vines are planted on two outcroppings with different terroirs. Gravel soils promote excellent drainage, while clay helps regulate water stress.

The vintage

The cool, mild and rainy winter favored an early budding of the vineyard at the beginning of April. The frosts that occurred on April 7th and 8th affected a small part of the Merlot vines, resting on clay soils. Cool temperatures combined with frequent rainfall slowed down the vegetative development along with flowering and veraison. The mild weather and high temperatures from mid-August onwards were ideal for refining the ripening process.

Vinification and aging

Traditional vinification for three weeks to preserve the freshness and aromatic potential of the grapes. Gentle extraction at low temperature.

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (69%), Merlot (26%), Cabernet Franc (4%) and Petit Verdot (1%).

Château Lafon-Rochet 2021: Characteristics and tasting tips

This 2021 vintage offers an alluring precision and vivacity. The complexity and elegance of the Cabernet grapes blend harmoniously with the freshness and roundness of the Merlot grapes.