2004 Lafite Rothschild
By Chateau Lafite Rothschild
2004 Lafite Rothschild from Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The 2004 vintage from the esteemed Chateau Lafite Rothschild is an exquisite testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Pauillac terroir. Amid a year of climatic tightropes, the Langonais vineyards have once again demonstrated their capacity for producing wines with a harmonious convergence of complexity and longevity. And as per tradition, let us unfurl the tapestry that is the 2004 Lafite Rothschild.
An Investment in Time: The 2004 Vintage Profile
2004 was a vintage that arrived on quiet feet after the fanfare-laden trio of vintages that preceded it. Following a generally dry August and a September bestowed with optimal conditions that ensured perfect ripeness, the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes were coaxed into revealing their robust charm and subtle finesse. It is within this vintage's DNA that investors discern refined elegance interwoven with lucrative maturation potential.
Vintage Character: A Study in Elegance
The allure of the 2004 Lafite Rothschild lies in its exquisite equilibrium. On the nose, one is greeted by a tapestry of black currants and delicate cedar, paying homage to its proud Cabernet heritage whilst flirting with notes of wild herbs and graphite—a narrative of aroma that continues to evolve with each sampling. Dustings of tobacco leaf emerge delicately from the glass, cuing a palate that is both firm and thoughtful in its density.
The tannins are consummate storytellers—rigorous yet impeccably polished—hints at a future unfolding gracefully through time's corridor. This wine articulates its terroir with an articulate finesse, offering an experience that explores the depths of subtlety and structure inherent in its Pauillac lineage.
The confluence of a diligent season's labour from Chateau Lafite Rothschild's vineyards in 2004 has born a wine that not only speaks with distinction among its peers but has steadily ascended the echelons as one of the most intriguing investment opportunities for aficionados and novices alike.
Connoisseur’s Conclusion
In summation, every glass of the 2004 Lafite Rothschild bespeaks a narrative—of climate's caprice turned to serendipity by human mastery, and of earth yielding its splendours through Bordeaux's most treasured vines. Appraise this vintage not just as a liquid legacy to be cherished on the palate but also as an asset woven into the fabric of intelligent portfolios. With time, may it unfurl further, presenting a tale that unfolds richly to those keen enough to invest in its languid pages.
Current market price
$9,610.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
385.33
Scores and tasting notes
This beautiful, stunningly dense purple-colored effort (includes about 90% Cabernet Sauvignon) offers up precise notes of graphite, black cherries, cassis, scorched earth, and minerals. Medium to full-bodied with fabulous fruit, impressive richness, refreshing acidity, and sweet tannin, this beauty should be approachable in 4-5 years, and last for three decades. As Lafite Rothschilds go, this is somewhat of a sleeper vintage. Also tasted: 2004 Carruades de Lafite (88)
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #171 June 2007
The 2004 Lafite-Rothschild appears to be another late-bloomer in the sense that this 12-year-old bottle is the best I have tasted, implying an upward swing in quality. It has a wondrous bouquet, very sensual and pure with blackberry, graphite and cedar - all the hallmarks of Pauillac, delivered with great panache. It is more opulent than I recall. The palate is medium-bodied with silky tannins, pitch-perfect acidity and a beautiful structure. There is a regal sense to this Lafite, understated compared to the other First Growths and yet the persistence on the finish deserves a round of applause, especially in the context of the vintage. This is superb and could possibly turn out to be the pick of the Firsts. Tasted September 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 February 2017
This is very refined on the nose with blackberry, wild strawberry and a touch of graphite and road tar, with cedar notes becoming ever more prominent with aeration. Very good definition. The palate has definitely come alive since its showing at primeur. Medium-bodied with very pure black fruits, superb minerality and very fine tannins. It is not quite as complex as one might expect a Lafite, but it does exude minerality and verve. Pure and sleek on the finish with wonderful poise. Excellent. Drink 2012-2030. Tasted November 2008.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2009