2005 Lafite Rothschild
By Chateau Lafite Rothschild
2005 Lafite Rothschild from Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The revered 2005 Lafite Rothschild from Chateau Lafite Rothschild deserves its plaudits as one of the quintessential expressions of Pauillac terroir. As an observer and commentator of the evolving tapestry of Bordeaux vintages, it's evident that the 2005 is a standout year, nestling comfortably in the pantheon of greats.
Investment-Worthy Vintage
In the context of fine wine investment, few vintages prompt the swell of excitement to a critic’s heart as does the 2005 crop from Pauillac. Marrying both rarity and renown, the 2005 Lafite Rothschild emerges as a wine that’s as much an asset as it is liquid artistry.
An Ode to a Distinguished Harvest
The year 2005 was anointed by auspicious conditions: a mild spring followed by a summer balanced between heat and humidity, culminating in an unhurried and flawless harvest. The result? Grapes of impeccable maturity and tannins of such finesse that they evoke the term 'silken.' The season shines vividly in each glass, portraying an anthology of dark berry fruits interwoven with hints of cedar and graphite — a testament to its storied upbringing on gravelly soils.
The palate conveys an opulence moderated by astute structure, the hallmark of Pauillac's finest offerings. Subtle whispers of spice and earth complement a persistently elegant finish. There is a vitality and depth to this vintage that speaks to its remarkable potential for longevity; curatorship in one's cellar will be well rewarded in the kaleidoscope of complexities that continue to unfurl with time.
In sum, the 2005 Lafite Rothschild exemplifies an exemplar vintage for Chateau Lafite Rothschild — its cultivated elegance, combined with robust investment potential, assures its esteem among connoisseurs and financiers alike. As this particular vintage continues to stride gracefully through its evolution, each bottle is an anthology not just of nature’s work but also of astute human craftsmanship culminating in one of Pauillac's most celebrated creations.
Market price (CAD)
$11,080.00
12x75cl
Highest score
100
POP score
333
Scores and tasting notes
An incredible nose, so subtle with red fruits, mint, minerals, and all sorts of flowers give way to Cohiba cigar tobacco. The palate has such freshness and density, with perfectly polished tannins. Slightly leathery, like a wonderful Hermes bag. What a wine, please leave this for another ten years. Pull the cork in 2020. 10% Merlot.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 23rd 2011
Tasted blind and tasted twice in the same month, this is a perplexing Lafite that as yet, has not lived up to its show stopping performance in barrel. There is more Cabernet, more graphite on the nose here with wonderful definition – just pure, unadulterated blackberry and cedar. Conservative, tightly coiled and beckoning considerable cellaring. Very smooth on the entry, no hard edges here, polished new oak, very fine tannins, great focus but I would like a little more depth on the finish. Broody, sultry and compelling. Drink 2020-2040+ Tasted January 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2009
While the 2005 is another brilliantly classic Lafite Rothschild, for my taste, it comes in slightly behind their extraordinarily opulent 2003 as well as the dramatically powerful 2000. A blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot, the 2005 boasts a dark ruby/purple color in addition to that exceptional Lafite perfume of graphite, spring flowers, crushed rocks, and sweet black cherry and black currant fruit that exudes class and nobility. The wine is medium-bodied with extremely high levels of tannin in addition to sensational purity, length, and overall harmony. However, it is exceptionally backward, and even more tannic than either the 1995 or 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2050+
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #176 April 2008
Having tasted the 2005 Château Lafite-Rothschild several times both blind and non-blind, it comes across as a First Growth politely requesting more time to "settle". Here, from an ex-château bottle tasted in Bordeaux, it delivers that graphite, pencil-box bouquet that unfurls gradually in the glass, biding its time, graceful but not intense. Parallel to some of its fellow 2005s, it is developing a little more spice, namely thyme and sage, than I recall. The palate is medium-bodied and beautifully balanced, to wit, a sophisticated Pauillac that priorities elegance and poise over intensity of fruit—in keeping with Lafite Rothschild's style. You come away with the sense that it will take its time and decline, giving away a great deal in its primacy, even if it is still more approachable than the 2005 Latour for example. Therefore, I would be inclined to set this aside for several more years. Tasted November 2014.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 July 2016