Château Lafite Rothschild stands at the pinnacle of Bordeaux’s First Growth estates, revered for centuries for its finesse, precision, and longevity. With origins dating back to the 13th century, Lafite remains a benchmark for Pauillac elegance, producing wines of purity, aromatic lift, and seamless structure. The 1990 vintage is widely considered one of the château’s most successful mature vintages.
Vineyard
Located on the northern edge of Pauillac, Lafite’s vineyards sit on deep, well-drained gravel soils with pockets of limestone — ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. Old vines, meticulous hand selection, and classical vinification contribute to the estate’s hallmark style: fragrance, harmony, and understated power.
Vintage
1990 was an exceptional, warm, and generous Bordeaux vintage. A dry harvest, perfect phenolic ripeness, and low disease pressure produced wines with rich fruit, supple tannins, and outstanding ageing potential. Many Left Bank estates consider 1990 among their top 20th-century vintages.
Tasting Notes
The 1990 Château Lafite Rothschild displays a deep garnet colour with a mature, elegant rim. The bouquet is exquisitely layered: cassis, blackberry, graphite, cedar, cigar box, violets, and truffle. The palate is refined and silky, showing perfectly resolved tannins, polished dark fruit, and secondary notes of tobacco leaf, leather, and warm earth. Long, ethereal, and harmonious — the definition of Lafite elegance at full maturity.
Critics’ Acclaim
Highly rated by major critics for its purity, balance, and longevity
Recognised as one of Lafite’s top mature vintages of the late 20th century
Technical Information
Region: Pauillac, Bordeaux
Classification: Premier Grand Cru Classé (First Growth)
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon–dominant blend
Alcohol: ~12.5%
Drinking Window: Now–2040+
A Collectible Gem
The 1990 Château Lafite Rothschild is a masterpiece of mature Bordeaux — graceful, complex, and endlessly layered. Nearing its peak yet still evolving beautifully, it stands as one of the most treasured Lafite vintages in the last 50 years. A centrepiece for any serious collector.
