2009 Carruades de Lafite, Pauillac 6x150cl

Robert Parker 93

Of course, the wine to buy in order to get a look at the Lafite Rothschild style and personality is their second wine, Carruades de Lafite, which has become very fashionable in Asia, causing the prices to soar. A very strong effort, the 2009 Carruades de Lafite may be the finest Carruades since the 2003. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot and tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it reveals lots of sweet cassis intermixed with subtle smoke and forest floor, undeniable lusciousness and full-bodied hedonism. The wood component is pushed to the background, and the wine is extremely viscous, round and delicious. Additional complexity should continue to emerge over the next decade and this 2009 should keep for 20-30 years. [01/02/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2012-2042

JancisRobinson.com 17.0

Vibrant with an energetic nose. Very sweet. Rose petals. Not the freshest. Some green notes too. A little loose and formless. Flattering but suggestions of candy rather than refreshment. Falls away a little. [17/01/2013]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026