2010 Carruades de Lafite, Pauillac

Another brilliant second wine, the 2010 Carruades de Lafite (50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42.5% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot) is elegant and amazing for a second wine from Lafite. 'Carruades de Lafite' is now engraved in the bottle to prevent unscrupulous sommeliers and merchants from trying to pass it off as Lafite Rothschild. The wine displays much of the same lead pencil, charcoal and black currant notes of its bigger sister, although it is forward, precocious and far less structured than the grand vin. Nevertheless, this wine, which can be drunk now, will cellar beautifully for at least 20-25 more years. (RP)

The second wine of Lafite, drawn from plots adjacent to the First Growth’s hilltop vines and from one of the greatest Bordeaux vintages of the modern era. The 2010 carries unmistakable Lafite breeding: aromas of black currant, pencil shavings, cedar, and crushed stone with a floral lift. The palate is refined and tightly woven—a Cabernet-led blend with Merlot for generosity—showing firm tannins, vibrant acidity, and remarkable length. Still young for a 2010; decant a full hour now or, better, cellar it another 5 to 10 years. Lafite’s elegance at a fraction of the First Growth price.