CHATEAU LAFON ROCHET 2005 - Saint-Estèphe 4ème Grand Cru Classé - France - Red Wine

Country : France
Region : Saint-Estephe
Type : Red
Year : 2005
Volume : 75 cl


TASTING NOTES : The domaine is located on a hill buffeted by north-west winds which dry the vines and make this terroir one of the most prestigious in the Saint-Estèphe appellation. The 45 hectares located between Château Lafite Rothschild and Cos d'Estournel make it the furthest cru classé from the Garonne. The domaine produces one of the most sumptuous and balanced Saint-Estèphes. It is dark red in hue with a spicy, dark fruit nose. On the palate, it delivers softness and suppleness, with smooth, fatty, round tannins. 

ROBERT PARKER'S NOTES (90)  At present, this structured, backward 2005 is dominated by the vintage's substantial tannins. It exhibits a saturated ruby/purple color, a reticent but promising bouquet of sweet black fruits intermixed with weedy tobacco, licorice, and leather characteristics. Medium-bodied and powerful, with excruciating tannin, but promising potential, patience is most definitely required. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2030.

ABOUT THE WINERY This ancient estate can trace its origins back to the early 16th century, at which time "Rochet" belonged to the vast Vallée Roussillon feudal estate. Chateau Lafon-Rochet stayed in the Lafon family for two years, despite the upheaval of the French Revolution. They were also owners in 1855, when their wine received the ultimate recognition as a great growth, along with only four others in the Saint-Estèphe appellation. The chateau is in a choice location, in one of the most prestigious winegrowing areas in the world – between Cos d'Estoumel and Lafite-Rothschild (to the south). It is thus hardly surprising that Guy Tesseron, famous for the quality of his old Cognac, was attracted to Lafon-Rochet some 40 years ago. After acquiring the estate, he decided that the existing cellar was unworthy of such a fine wine, and had it razed. He built an entirely new one and, in a highly unusual move, built a new chateau as well, in the style of the 17th century chartreuse manor house. Thanks to the great care and attention lavished on Lafon-Rochet, it has become one of the standard bearers of the great wines of Saint-Estèphe in France and around the world.

ABOUT CHATEAU LAFON ROCHET