Lafite Rothschild 2006

One of the fabulous surprises, although I had suggested last year that it could jump in quality, of my tastings, the 2006 Lafite Rothschild is a great, great wine made from a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot. When I tasted it from barrel, it reminded me of their successful 1988, but it is dramatically superior to that vintage. Frankly, it may turn out to be as good as the 2005, which in all of Bordeaux is a far greater vintage than 2006. Lafite’s severe selection process (42% made it into the grand vin) resulted in a full-bodied wine boasting an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, truffles, lead pencil shavings, and sensationally sweet, ripe black currant and cedar notes. A wine of extraordinary intensity, texture, and depth with silky tannins as well as awesome concentration, this has turned out to be a remarkable Lafite Rothschild that should be drinkable much earlier than the 2005, but age for three decades. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2035+.

40% of the harvest went into the grand vin. Late picked (26 Sep – 3 Oct for the Cabernet, which comprises 82% of the blend) but presumably it was viticulture that kept the grapes in such good nick. The Merlot was picked much earlier (16-22 September).
Less blue than Duhart with mid concentration. Very healthy opulent concentrated crimson. A particular spice to this vintage on the nose. Crisp and racy and beautifully balanced on the palate – possibly the most complete wine so far. Just caresses the palate and only on the finish shows you quite how much (notably ripe) tannin there is underneath. Remarkably compact. Lovely freshness without any greenness or angularity.