Château Lafite Rothschild 2019

One of the greatest wines produced in Bordeaux this year is the 2019 Lafite Rothschild, an impeccably balanced classic of immense charm and grace. Wafting from the glass with arresting aromas of cassis, blackberries and cherries mingled with violets, cigar box and warm spices, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless, its velvety attack segueing into a layered, concentrated mid-palate framed by exquisitely powdery tannins and ripe acids, and concluding with a long, perfumed finish. This rivals the 2010 and 2016 as the greatest Lafite of the decade, and of those three vintages, it's clearly the most sensual and demonstrative out of the gates. - William Kelley

Complex aromas of black currants and lead pencil. Incredible. Graphite and tar. Stunning. It's full-bodied, yet shows such harmony and polish. Elegance and complexity with finesse. The tannins are so integrated and endless. It goes on for minutes. 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot.

The bouquet of Lafite sets the stage for entry and announces a very great wine. What an olfactory balance where floral, fruity and spicy nuances are in perfect harmony. On the palate the wine presents itself with a certain timidity, respectively it reveals itself very slowly, with finesse, on tiptoe. As the palate progresses, the tannins settle in and take possession of the mouth. They are of exceptional finesse and serene, precise, relevant power. What grandeur, delicacy, quiet strength and what ability to shine with such finesse and length. A very great Lafite which brilliantly confirms the abilities announced during the primeurs. 2027-2060.

An opulent and fruit-forward vintage for Lafite in 2019. Vivid purple color in the glass with black currant, cherry and milk chocolate notes. Gorgeous weight on the palate with such fine tannins and depth of flavor - not so much rich but driven, refined, elegant, almost refrained. Feels compact at first, settling to reveal layers of vibrant spiced fruit and and cooling menthol hints alongside clear graphite and wet stone that comes through clearly. Supremely balanced with an underlying mouth filling juiciness that offers finessed creamy fruit. Structured and well framed with a long life ahead. 2028 - 2050. - Georgina Hindle