2002 Ch. Lafite Rothschild, 1er Cru Classé, Pauillac

Only 41% of Lafite’s production made its way into the grand vin in 2002 such is the commitment to quality here. This has an obviously classy perfumed nose with a fresh and appealing purity. This is replicated on the serious palate with its lashings of ripe strawberry and black cherry fruit, new oak and firm tannins. From a relatively restrained start the wine develops beautifully in the mouth, with smoky dark fruit and tobacco hints leading to a firm, long finish. This is a strong candidate for ‘wine of the vintage’ in 2002.