Chateau Lafite-Rothschild 1982

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château Lafite-Rothschild 1982

Tasting

Nose
The nose combines floral fragrances and blond tobacco.

Palate
The palate reveals a beautiful roundness, supported by a persistent freshness, while its balanced structure leads to a clean, long finish marked by silky tannins.

The finesse and balance of a great Pauillac wine

The property

First among the classified growths in 1855 of Bordeaux, the Château Lafite-Rothschild is a lord on its gravel lands. Carrying a long viticultural tradition initiated in 1620, it has asserted itself over the centuries as a true standard-bearer of the Pauillac appellation on the left bank of the Bordeaux region. Indeed, from Cardinal Richelieu to the then President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, the great personalities of this world have fallen under the charm of these great wines with a unique soul and unparalleled refinement.

The vineyard

Château Lafite-Rothschild benefits from an exceptional location with a vineyard divided into three major areas of Pauillac. From the hills surrounding the château to the Carruades plateau to the west and a plot in the neighboring commune of Saint-Estèphe, Château Lafite-Rothschild oversees a total of 112 ha of vines planted on fine and deep gravel soils with sands on the surface while the limestone subsoil allows excellent drainage.

The vintage

This year, early but less so than in 1976, experienced a rapid flowering under the effect of high temperatures and significant sunshine in June. July, marked by high heat and stormy rains, was followed by a cooler August, leading to irregular veraison.

Vinification and aging

Parcel vinification in wooden, stainless steel or cement vats. Alcoholic fermentation accompanied by regular pumping over. Maceration of about 20 days depending on the vintages. Following malolactic fermentation, barreling in French oak barrels from the property's cooperage. Individual tasting of barrels to select the most qualitative for the final blend. Aging for 20 months in barrels (100% new).

Blend

Cabernet sauvignon (65%), merlot (29%), cabernet franc (6%).