2023 Lafon Rochet
Buying options
Tasting notes
Somewhat dark and brooding on the nose, black plum, tart blackberry, tea leaf and cocoa powder are framed by sturdy tannins that propel the wine forward into a long, gripping finish. Graphite and a faint saline note add complexity. This is well-built wine, with a great deal of aging potential.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Lafon-Rochet is much more intense and fresher than the Pélerins, graphite- and tobacco-tinged black fruit, just a light floral note in the background. Well-defined. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple entry, fine tannins, classic in style with quite a liberal sprinkling of cracked black pepper. Quite graphite-driven on the finish, afford this three or four years in bottle to get the most from it.
Blackberries, black cherries, spice, and tobacco leaves with a touch of spice fill the nose. On the palate, the wine is vibrant, soft, and polished with ripe, brisk tannins, and a chewy, fresh, peppery finish. The wine was made from blending 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc. 13.35%. This is only the second vintage with the new owner, Jackie Lorenzetti, and the team of Emmanuel Cruse fully in charge.
About the producer
Instantly recognisable for its sunshine-yellow château and labels, Ch. Lafon-Rochet is a Fourth Growth Saint-Estèphe estate renowned for its age-worthy wines. Quality at the property has increased significantly over the last two decades and, with new owners from 2021, this will only continue.