Château Lafite Rothschild 2022 is the "first among the firsts" of the original 1855 Bordeaux Classification. This vintage represents a technical triumph under Chairperson Saskia de Rothschild, characterized by the earliest harvest start since 1893 and a record-shattering 17.5% press wine in the final blend. It is a profound expression of vine adaptation in Pauillac’s most storied terroir.
The Technical Distinction
The 2022 vintage is defined by an extreme 94% Cabernet Sauvignon majority, matured in 100% new French oak, resulting in a wine of unprecedented precision and structural power.
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Vine Adaptation: The vines benefited from the hot 2018-2021 cycle, allowing for a 13.6% ABV that remains perfectly balanced by Lafite’s signature cool acidity.
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Triple 100 Rating: Awarded perfect scores from James Suckling, Jeb Dunnuck, and Wine Advocate, placing it in the elite tier of modern First Growths.
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Press Wine Record: The inclusion of 17.5% press wine—the highest in estate history—provides a backbone of intensity comparable to the legendary 1986.
Sensory Profile
Nose: Graphite, tobacco, and pencil shavings. Initially reticent, it gradually unfolds with secondary notes of violets, cigar box, and orange peel.
Palate: Fine-boned and symmetrical. Black currant and crushed stone entry transition into cool blue fruits, flint, and liquorice through the mid-palate.
Finish: Exceptionally long and saline. A multi-minute persistence of mineralité that producers directly compare to the great 1986 vintage.
The Peerage
Lafite 2022 stands as the peak of the 2018-2022 "Golden Cycle." Within Pauillac, its fine-boned tannic structure distinguishes it from the more muscular Latour and the exuberant Mouton Rothschild.
"Arguably the most complete Lafite produced in the 21st century."
Technical Specifications
| Producer |
Château Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac |
| Classification |
Premier Grand Cru Classé (1855) |
| Blend |
94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot |
| Vintage |
2022 |
| Maturation |
100% New French Oak |
| Alcohol |
13.6% ABV |
| Bottle Size |
750 ml |
Collector Notes
The 2022 Lafite is a "triple perfect" vintage, a designation earned more often by Lafite than any other Pauillac First Growth. Given the historic nature of the press wine blend and the extreme Cabernet dominance, this bottle is a foundational asset for any blue-chip Bordeaux collection. Every bottle offered is verified for original label integrity and stored at ideal cellar temperature. Original Wood Cases (OWC) are prioritized for multi-bottle acquisitions. This is a mandatory target for those tracking the high-water marks of the Rothschild legacy.
Recommended Serving
Built for the cellar; optimal drinking begins from 2032 through 2070+. If enjoying early, a 3–4 hour decant is essential to unlock the reticent tobacco and graphite layers. Serve at 60–64°F in a large Bordeaux glass. Pairs peerlessly with aged ribeye, roasted lamb, or truffle-driven preparations.
