2005 Carruades de Lafite
By Chateau Lafite Rothschild
The 2005 Carruades de Lafite from Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The 2005 vintage in Bordeaux stands as one of exceptional grace, producing wines that effortlessly bridge the gap between power and elegance. Of particular note is the 2005 Carruades de Lafite from Chateau Lafite Rothschild. As a second wine, it offers a glimpse into the laudable characteristics of its venerable elder sibling, without demanding quite as many years of patience before its curtain call.
Vintage Virtuosity in a Glass
True connoisseurs will recall that 2005 was a year marked by near-flawless weather conditions in Pauillac, allowing for consistent flowering, fruit set, and ultimately an unhurried, precision harvest. It is precisely this harmony between nature and nurture that has sealed the fate of the 2005 Carruades de Lafite – a paragon within its echelon.
Investment Potential Unearthed
A complex mélange of ripe blackcurrant and cedar notes are interwoven with subtle hints of graphite and spicy oak nuances on the nose. On the palate, there is an esteemed balance between the structured tannins and the rich fruit profile enhanced by a deft touch of oak ageing. The finish, both prolonged and profoundly satisfying, reaffirms its pedigree.
This particular vintage of 2005 Carruades de Lafite is characterised by its early approachability; it is an enticing proposition for investors looking for a wine that can flourish both in the cellar and on the marketplace soon. Moreover, being under the umbrella of Chateau Lafite Rothschild adds a layer of reverence generally reserved for first-growths.
The astute investor will not only appreciate this wine's meticulous crafting but will also acknowledge its significant potential for both maturation and portfolio diversification. With careful cellaring, its value and complexity are likely to ascend elegantly over time.
In closing, one must applaud the efforts at Chateau Lafite Rothschild for this majestic offering. The 2005 Carruades de Lafite embodies the magnificence of the vintage while signalling a judicious investment opportunity for collectors and connoisseurs alike – a remarkable specimen from an outstanding Bordelais year.
Market price (HKD)
HK$23,970.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
193.08
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted single blind at Southwold. This has a deep ripe plumy nose with good definition and freshness: cedar and blackberry, a tangible sense of mineralite but tightly-coiled. A dense weighty palate, great concentration and vibrant acidity, very focused, lithe, wonderful definition with a lifted cedar finish. No frills, but masterful winemaking is afoot here. Drink 2012-2025. Tasted January 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2009
A spectacular value as well as a sleeper of the vintage is the 135,000-bottle cuvee of 2003 Carruades de Lafite (50% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Cabernet Franc). This amazing effort rivals such superb second wines as the 1989 Bahans-Haut-Brion and 1982 Forts de Latour. A serious red, it is sexy, opulent, rich, and luscious with silky tannin, enormous body, and wave after wave of mocha-infused black cherry and cassis fruit. It is almost too good to be believed. While drinkable now, it should evolve for 12-15 years or longer.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #164
Their second wine, the 2005 Carruades de Lafite, shows much of the character of its bigger sister, with loads of red and black currant fruit, spice box and earth. Medium-bodied, with soft tannins, this precise, pure and seductive wine should be drunk over the next 15-20 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2015