2013 Carruades de Lafite
By Chateau Lafite Rothschild
2013 Carruades de Lafite from Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The illustrious terroirs of Pauillac have once again given us a reason to marvel with the 2013 Carruades de Lafite from Chateau Lafite Rothschild. As I reflect upon the numerous vintages I've had the pleasure to acquaint myself with, the 2013 vintage presents an opportunistic canvas for investors and connoisseurs alike, capturing an essence unique to this challenging year.
A Testament to Resilience
The 2013 vintage in Bordeaux did not enjoy the climatic benevolence of other celebrated years; its harvest narrative spun by adversity. Yet, within this struggle lies the triumph of the winemakers' art – a testament to the resilience of Chateau Lafite Rothschild's viticulture and enology. Sourcing from younger vines than its grand aîné, Carruades de Lafite offers an approachable entry into the estate’s philosophy.
Character and Complexity
Opening a bottle of the 2013 Carruades de Lafite, one is greeted with a harmony of aroma and complexity. The wine reveals layers of ripe blackcurrant and subtle cedar, intertwined with smoky undertones. On the palate, it offers a refined structure, moderate tannins cradling the fruit content meticulously—a sheer indication of masterful blending amidst challenging conditions.
With a terroir speaking more softly than boisterous years, the 2013 serves a plummy elegance, an echo of restraint behind each sip. It's this balance which affirms 2013 Carruades de Lafite as a captivating selection for investment or eventual consumption.
Investing in Elegance
In the tapestry of seasons that shape Bordeaux wines, the 2013 vintage from Chateau Lafite Rothschild bears witness to lessons learned amidst adversity. As one peers through its garnet hue, there lies an opportunity not just to invest financially but to invest in legacy—knowing that fascinating chapters often follow complex beginnings in the world of wine.
The 2013 Carruades de Lafite is a keen choice for those who seek to diversify their portfolio with vintages depicting triumph over tribulation—a narrative as old as winemaking itself. It is a wine that promises maturation with grace and, indeed, will hold its chapter in the storied annals of Pauillac's enduring allure.
Current market price
$4,730.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
315.56
Scores and tasting notes
The Carruades de Lafite is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. It has quite a floral bouquet with touches of dried violet petals infusing the crisp blackberry fruit, laced with cedar and a touch of smoke. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple entry, starting with black fruit but gently moving to more red fruit towards the finish. There is not the usual persistency, but it has pleasing purity and approachability. Tasted April 2014.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal
A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2013 Carruades de Lafite includes about 50% of the crop. As at many properties in 2013, yields were very small (30 hectoliters per hectare), but that has not resulted in much character or concentration in the wine. It is light to medium ruby-hued with dusty, loamy soil notes, modest, superficial fruit, and a fading, angular finish. Drink it up.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 August 2014