1996 Carruades de Lafite
Buying options
Tasting Notes
Aromas of currant and cigar box. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Ready to go.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Drink now.-James Suckling, Wine Spectator 2007
Critic Scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
I have noticed in my tastings that the second wine of Lafite-Rothschild, Carruades de Lafite, has improved over recent years. The 1996, a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon and 37% Merlot, may turn out to be the finest Carruades I have ever tasted. It possesses as much power, ripeness, and fleshy fruit (because of the high percentage of Merlot) as I have ever detected in this offering. While it does not quite have the characteristics of Lafite, being fleshier and more accessible, it is a beautifully made wine with a subtle dosage of toasty new oak, an appealing texture, and excellent length. Given its power, this second wine will need 2-4 years of cellaring, and keep for 15+ years (I would not be surprised to see it last for two decades). Feb 1998, www.robertparker.com
Related articles
About the producer
Ch. Lafite Rothschild is one of the most famous wine estates in Bordeaux and the world. One of the Left Bank’s five First Growths, the Pauillac property is renowned for producing wines of finesse and elegance that age beautifully.