Tasting Notes

93
Vinous Neal Martin - 01 Feb 23
The 2019 Lafon-Rochet is tightly-wound on the nose, yet it seems delineated and focused, mineral-laden black fruit, sous-bois and dried tobacco scents unfurling in the glass. The palate is impressive with good concentration on the entry. This has an arching structure, fine acidity, off dry and slightly austere on the finish, but there is clearly the substance to ensure that it will age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.
Drinking Date: 2026 - 2050
93
Inside Bordeaux Jane Anson - 12 Jan 22
Clear tension and hold that heads towards austere, with tannins that close in on the finish and an emphasis on gunsmoke graphite and pencil lead. This needs time in the glass, but unwinds to show cassis and bilberry fruits, a little subdued but impressive, with potential to develop further over the next 10 to 15 years. The penultimate vintage under Basile Tesseron, just as this wine is reaching the market, ownership has changed from the Tesseron family to Jacky Lorenzetti.
Drinking Date: 2027 - 2044
92
The Wine Independent Lisa Perrotti-Brown - 01 May 23
A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Lafon-Rochet is deep garnet-purple in color. It is quite closed to begin, revealing glimpses at blackcurrant jelly, fresh blackberries, and dark chocolate hints, followed by wafts of roses, cedar, and cumin seed. The medium-bodied palate is muscular and densely laden with serious black fruit and earthy layers, framed by firm, grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with a spicy lift.
Drinking Date: 2023 - 2034
Saint-Estèphe Fine Wine

Saint-Estephe

Saint-Estèphe, a prestigious Bordeaux appellation in the northern Médoc, is known for robust, full-bodied red wines primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. These wines are deeply coloured, with firm tannins and rich flavours of dark fruits, earth, and spice, making them structured and age-worthy. Top producers include Château Cos d'Estournel, Château Montrose, and Château Calon-Ségur. The region's gravelly and clay-rich soils contribute to the wines' distinctive character and complexity.