2005 Château Lafon-Rochet

The 2005 Lafon-Rochet has a very expressive bouquet with raspberry, blackberry, briary, black pepper and light sous-bois scents. The palate is medium-bodied with tobacco-tinged red and black fruit, beautifully balanced with good substance. This is fresh and saline on the finish. The 2005 is a really superb Lafon-Rochet that will continue to drink well for several years. Tasted at the Lafon-Rochet vertical at the property.

These were good years for Lafon Rochet, when it was a little under-the-radar but making good quality, consistent wine, and you'll find here classic, balanced, old-school St Estèphe flavours. Plenty of ripe red fruits, gentle wafts of blond tobacco aromatics, showcasing the balance and simple charms of the vintage. Tannins frame remains clear, and the acidity is just a little higher than ideal, but plenty of juice and character, and hard to argue with. Harvest September 19 to October 9, 3.6ph.

49% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot. Round and velvety on the nose. Riper than most St-Estèphes! Round and very supple. Quite a bit of acidity rather than tannin. Something a bit inky about this. A tiny bit pinched on the finish. Needs time? (JR)