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Carruades de Lafite Rothschild (2nd Vin) 1997 75cl

2eme Vin | Pauillac | Bordeaux | France
CHF 508.05
Critics scores
89 By Robert Parker
The 1997 Carruades de Lafite (a blend of 32% Merlot, with the rest mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and a small portion of Cabernet Franc) maintains its reputation as one of Bordeaux's better second wines. The color is dark ruby with purple nuances. The wine is soft, fleshy, and round, with more up-front fat than Lafite, but not nearly the length or perfume. Supple, with low acidity, and an easy-going, silky finish, it will drink well between now and 2006. Lafite's harvest occurred between September 8 (beginning with the Merlot) and October 2. For some Cabernet Sauvignon parcels, there were an exceptional 135 days (the norm being 105-110 days) between the flowering and harvest. This estate, which made a profoundly great 1996, utilized only 28% of its harvest for the 1997 grand vin. Moreover, the selection for the second wine, Carruades, was also severe.
Producer
Château Lafite Rothschild
Traditional, elegant, and legendary – are just a few words that can describe the world’s most famous Bordeaux estate, Château Lafite Rothschild. Owned by Domaines Barons de Rothschild since the 1700s, the First Growth estate has remained the “leader among fine wines,” producing top-quality wines for decades. As one of the largest producers in Pauillac, the estate owns over 100-hectares of vineyards planted to 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and a mere 1% Petit Verdot. Two-thirds of the vineyards form a single plot around the château, while the third parcel intertwines with those of Duhart-Milon. The renowned Médoc winery produces a fragrant and soulful Grand Vin, Château Lafite Rothschild that represents the essential harmony found between man and nature. In the same spirit of distinction, Les Carruades de Lafite Rothschild is produced with a higher content of Merlot, this exceptional wine is much more impressive than an average second label. Both wines benefit from 15 to 20 years of cellaring, to achieve the ultimate unity found between the powerful tannins and the aromas of cedar and cassis fruit.