Carruades de Lafite 2011

This is a red with chocolate, hazelnut and berry character. It's full- to medium-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a juicy finish. Very well done for the vintage. Better in 2015.

A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 3.5% Cabernet Franc and 2.5% Petit Verdot, the Carruades has quite a voluminous bouquet, much more rounded thanks to that Merlot with blackberry, mulberry and sous-bois. The palate is much rounder and more forward that I was expected with soft, very supple tannins...this will be an approachable Carruades to drink for pleasure rather than intellectual return. Tasted April 2012.

The 2011 Carruades de Lafite is composed of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soft berry fruit, underbrush, fresh herb and bay leaf characteristics as well as soft tannins, a velvety texture, and a medium-bodied, slightly superficial, but satisfying style suggest this 2011 should be consumed over the next 10-15 years.