2010 Carruades de Lafite
By Chateau Lafite Rothschild
2010 Carruades de Lafite from Château Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
The 2010 Carruades de Lafite from Château Lafite Rothschild sits as a testament to the glorious winemaking triumphs of Bordeaux’s Left Bank. The tenure of my palate’s acquaintance with the estate's offerings spans decades, yet it is the orchestration of climatic perfection in 2010 that sets this vintage apart.
A Distinct Chapter in the Annals of Pauillac
A season marked by measured sunshine and optimal ripening conditions bestowed upon us a vintage with profound structure and elegant complexity. The company of 2010 Carruades de Lafite in a collector’s portfolio is not just welcome, it's essential for those seeking to capture the quintessence of Pauillac's terroir. This second wine from the prestigious Château Lafite Rothschild realm exudes its lineage with grace, whilst carving out its own niche.
The Balance of Power and Finesse
This particular year has brandished the 2010 Carruades de Lafite with characteristic notes that are both deep and broad-ranging. A romantic assemblage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot lends an aromatic complexity replete with blackcurrant and subtle cedar. The tannins, while undoubtedly forthright, are impeccably tailored—offering a framework that promises longevity.
Indeed, investment in fine wines is akin to embroidery on the broadcloth of time; the fruits of such endeavours are realised as the tapestry matures, revealing its finely woven splendour. This second label offering allows entry into the storied history of Château Lafite Rothschild at a stroke less dear than its premier assemblage, yet no less rich in potential and reward.
A Worthy Investment, A Taste Relived
Aligning one's portfolio with the 2010 Carruades de Lafite speaks to discernment and foresight. Here lies a vintage imbued with the promise of Pauillac's strength and paragon defined by its remarkable year—a most prudent inclusion for connoisseurs poised at the junction of pleasure and providence.
Current market price
£2,955.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
197
Scores and tasting notes
This smells like a bouquet of flowers with blueberries and currants and spices. Full body, yet agile and refined. So fine and pretty. It's balanced and in harmony. Savory. A smoky, decadent and meat undertone. Try in 2016.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, November 14th 2013
The Carruades is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42.5% Merlot, 2.4% Petit Verdot and 5.1% Cabernet Franc. It has a well-defined bouquet, blackberry, graphite, sous-bois and pleasant floral notes. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a juicy core of ebullient black cherry fruit and trademark graphite notes towards the long, persistent finish. This is certainly a very high quality Carruades. Tasted November 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2013
Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Carruades de Lafite charges out of the gate with bold scents of baked plums and boysenberries followed by hints of menthol, tobacco leaf, cloves and smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a well-poised frame of ripe, grainy tannins and seamless freshness supporting the savory flavors, finishing with a spicy kick.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 5 March 2020