2025 Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac

The 2025 Lafite-Rothschild was cropped at 27 hl/ha between September 2 and 20. Eric Kohler mentioned that, unlike 2022, it underwent a longer maceration than usual because, after 24 days, he felt the wine was at ease with itself and there was no excess. That comes through completely on the deliriously intoxicating nose, replete with nuanced blackberry, bilberry and estuarine scents, all beautifully defined and seamlessly integrated with the 90% new oak that is made from Lafite’s own cooper. The palate is medium-bodied with finely chiselled tannins. It is blessed with extraordinary harmony and it is so well balanced that you almost overlook the weight and minéralité towards the finish. Just a dab of graphite lingers on the aftertaste. This is a very succinct and refined Lafite-Rothschild that I suspect will drink earlier than the 2022, yet will age with equal grace in bottle. I admit that, upon returning to my car, it was only then that I realised what a brilliant wine the 2025 Lafite-Rothschild is destined to become. (NM)

Checking in as 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot that's resting in 90% new French oak, the 2025 Château Lafite Rothschild sports a classic, deep ruby hue as well as a complex and classic nose of cassis, spicy wood, tobacco, violets, and graphite. It's quintessential Lafite on the palate as well, with its class, medium to full body, ripe, building, yet polished tannins, and nicely integrated acidity. It checks in at 12.51% alcohol with a pH of 3.65. I love its overall balance, purity, and complexity, and I suspect it's going to continue gaining weight over the course of its élevage.

The 2025 Lafite opens with an expressive bouquet of deep red and black fruits of cassis, black cherry, and ripe plum, layered over delicate floral notes of violet and a subtle hint of paprika spice. The palate is poised and refined, with finely integrated tannins providing structure without overwhelming the wine’s elegance. Beautifully balanced from start to finish, it carries impressive depth and concentration while maintaining freshness and restraint. The moderate alcohol is seamlessly woven into the wine, contributing to its harmony without any trace of heat. A polished and sophisticated expression that combines power with precision.

Lafite produced a phenomenal wine in 2025. Pure balance and finesse, with an absolutely seamless texture. Floral and red fruit notes on the nose carry over to cassis, violet, and mineral notes on the palate. This is a wine of exceptional purity, refined and precise, with fine-grained tannins and a long, velvety finish. Nicely concentrated but at 12.5% alcohol, the wine is remarkably fresh and light on its feet. A stunning Lafite and highly recommended.