2022, Château Lafon-Rochet, SAINT-ESTÉPHE , 4ème Grand Cru Classe

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc

4th growth. This striking property, with its yellow walls, is just along the road from Cos d'Estournel and overlooks the vineyards of Lafite. 2022 blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc.

The 2022 Lafon-Rochet is fabulous. Once again, Lafon-Rochet is the most elegant wine in Saint-Estèphe. There's a bit more richness and mid-palate intensity than in the past, likely a combination of the year and the approach of the new team headed by Technical Director Christophe Congé, who was formerly at Lafite-Rothschild. The 2022 signals a new era for the château that is likely to see a greater focus on selection and a slightly richer style. Even so, the signatures of Lafon-Rochet are evident. It's an exciting time. 95-97 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.

This shows a terrific tannin backbone with blackcurrants and berries. Medium body. Solid fruit. Vivid. 94-95 James Suckling.

Baked plum, damson, black pepper, edges of cut herbs and dried rose petals, campfire smoke and soot. This is intense but has an aromatic quality that hugs through the palate, and the tannins are plentiful but well controlled. Eric Boissenot consultant together with director Christophe Congé, ex Lafite, in his first full vintage. As of 2024 this will be the first Cru Classé in St Estèphe to be certified organic. 94 Jane Anson.

An exceptional wine in 2022. Fresh and fragrant lovely strawberry and red cherry notes on the nose. Smooth and round, generous and deep, a lovely immediate intensity of flavour while keeping a sleek and tense expression. Gorgeous weight in the mouth, supple, and nicely fruited but with density and roundness. Feels really well worked, so defined and detailed, a lovely precision. Nothing feels out of place and it has a very drinkable and approachable quality, still with a dark liquorice and dark chocolate edge and some graphite touches. Extremely complete and well made with control and finesse. 95 Georgina Hindle, Decanter.

Drinking Window: 2030 - 2052