Château Lafite Rothschild, the most prestigious of the Bordeaux First Growths, embodies centuries of winemaking excellence and timeless elegance. With records dating back to the 17th century, Lafite continues to define the Pauillac style through its hallmark combination of finesse, structure, and longevity.
Vineyard
Located in Pauillac on the Left Bank of Bordeaux, the Lafite estate spans 112 hectares of deep gravel soils over limestone. The 2008 vintage was composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. This perfect expression of the terroir showcases the estate’s mastery of balance, purity, and precision.
Vintage
The 2008 growing season began cool and wet but ended with an extraordinary Indian summer in September and October. These late-season conditions delivered small, perfectly ripe berries with thick skins and exceptional tannic structure. Many critics consider 2008 one of the great classic vintages of the decade for Lafite, praised for its clarity, freshness, and longevity.
Tasting Notes
The 2008 Château Lafite Rothschild opens with an ethereal bouquet of cassis, graphite, cedar, and violets, underpinned by notes of tobacco, crushed stone, and pencil shavings. The palate is pure and seamless, offering layers of dark currant, plum, and savoury spice wrapped in ultra-fine tannins. The finish is long, mineral-driven, and precise, revealing Lafite’s signature restraint and grace. This vintage will continue to evolve beautifully for decades.
Critics’ Acclaim
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98 points – James Suckling
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95+ points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
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97 points – Decanter
Hailed for its precision, tension, and longevity, the 2008 is often described as a modern-day classic Lafite.
Technical Information
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Region/Appellation: Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
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Classification: 1er Grand Cru Classé (1855)
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Blend: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
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Alcohol: ~13%
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Winemaker: Charles Chevallier
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Closure: Cork
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Drinking Window: 2020–2070+
A Collectible Gem
The 2008 Château Lafite Rothschild is an extraordinary vintage, balancing purity and power with impeccable finesse. With its long life ahead and classic Pauillac poise, it remains one of the most sought-after wines in the world—a true symbol of Bordeaux perfection.
