1999 Lafite Rothschild
By Chateau Lafite Rothschild
1999 Lafite Rothschild from Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The turn of the millennium heralded a suite of intrigues in Bordeaux, with the 1999 Lafite Rothschild from Chateau Lafite Rothschild emerging as a particularly noteworthy chapter in wine investment tomes. A vintage which, due to the climatic challenges faced during the year, requires a connoisseur’s discerning eye to appreciate its unique nuances compared to its more ebullient kin.
Deciphering the 1999 Vintage Narrative
An advocate of subtlety over bravado, the 1999 Lafite Rothschild encapsulates an exercise in precision under testing conditions. The year brought Pauillac viticulturists a gamut of meteorological tests with relatively cool temperatures and dampness that vigneron expertise transformed into an emblematic display of skill. Not all years can boast storied sun-soaked tales, but they need not when the resultant liquid narrative expresses such eloquence as this.
An Ode to Resilience and Artistry
Upon partaking of the 1999 Lafite Rothschild, enthusiasts are greeted by a mélange of cassis and earthy truffles on the olfactory passage, quickly followed by a tapestry of subtle black fruit layered with smoked herbs on the palate. The medium-bodied structure carries refined tannins and a presence that appreciates with air and attention, revealing complexities amassed from its storied terroir. With age, this vintage has unfolded into a manifestation of Pauillac resilience; a testament to Chateau Lafite Rothschild's prowess.
Pitched at a discerning investor’s sensibilities, this wine fits neatly into thoughtful portfolios. Its expression speaks volumes of a château unwavering in its commitment to excellence irrespective of nature’s fickleness. The 1999 Lafite from Chateau Lafite Rothschild commands respect for its graceful aging potential and is deserving of astute consideration for inclusion in any fine wine collection.
Worthy Investment: A Vintage Marked by Time
To sip on the 1999 Lafite Rothschild from Chateau Lafite Rothschild is to relive Bordeaux's test of time; it is not merely wine tasting—it's an evocative journey through historic vineyards. Each bottle is a chapter in winemaking resilience, poised within cellars as both an investable asset and a cherished piece of vinous artistry, awaiting occasions that merit its uncorking. Thus lies the endurance of passion that defines not only this stalwart Pauillac producer but also one's investment horizon.
Market price (GBP)
£5,990.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
399.33
Scores and tasting notes
The 1999 Lafite Rothschild sports an engraved "1999" on the bottle along with an eclipse to mark that significant historical event of August, 1999. It is a quintessential offering from Lafite Rothschild. This prodigious wine is both elegant and intensely flavored, and almost diaphanous in its layers that unfold with no heaviness. An opaque ruby/purple color is accompanied by a complex bouquet of lead pencil, graphite, cedar, creme de cassis, toast, and vanilla. It is medium-bodied, with extravagant layers of richness yet little weight, and a finish that is all sweetness, ripeness, and harmony. This extraordinary Lafite increasingly appears to be a modern day clone of the majestic 1953. A mere one-third of the crop made it into the grand vin! Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2002
Tasted at the IMW Lafite seminar in London. The 1999 Lafite Rothschild has a slightly more autumnal, leafy nose when compared to the 2000, but it has extremely good delineation and clarity with scents of brambly blackberry fruit, boysenberry, melted tar and a touch of allspice. The Merlot lends the aromatics more roundness. The palate is medium-bodied with a harmonious, smooth, spicy entry imparted by the dash of Petit Verdot. It is not powerful or even tannic, but it has a vibrancy and tension that makes it a very fine Lafite. Very elegant towards the blackberry and graphite finish with a long tail of citrus fresh blackberry and cedar on the finish. Tasted February 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012