Château Lafite Rothschild 1975 DL

Tasting note: Château Lafite Rothschild 1975

(Pauillac, Bordeaux, France; Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot; 12.5-13% alcohol)

General:
The Château Lafite Rothschild 1975 is a fascinating relic from a difficult Bordeaux vintage. The year 1975 was characterised by extreme heat and drought, which led to early-ripening grapes with a high sugar content but partly unbalanced tannins. As one of the legendary Premier Crus of Pauillac, Lafite nevertheless demonstrates its mastery here: despite the climatic challenges, a wine of aristocratic dignity was created, which reveals its tertiary complexity after almost 50 years. A contemporary document for collectors and connoisseurs.

Appearance:
Medium garnet red with broad, brick-coloured reflections on the rim and slight translucency. The colour indicates maturity, but still retains a noble depth. Fine sediment and delicate tears in the glass emphasise the age.

Nose:
An elegant, tertiary bouquet: cedar wood, old leather, tobacco leaf and truffle dominate. Subtle fruity notes of dried plum, baked cherry and figs join earthy nuances (forest floor, humus). Slight hints of balsamic vinegar, vanilla and a smoky minerality (graphite) lend noblesse to the aroma.

Palate:
Medium-bodied with silky integrated tannins and surprisingly fresh acidity for its age. Aromas of dried herbs (thyme), autumn leaves, black tea and a salty, mineral character unfold on the palate. The fruit is restrained (ripe blackberry, marzipan), while tertiary notes of bitter almond and leather emphasise the elegance. The balance is remarkable, albeit less powerful than in great vintages.

Finish:
Long, warm finish with notes of liquorice, roasted coffee beans and a cool stoniness. The finish remains harmonious, carried by a melancholic spiciness.

Maturation potential & drinking recommendation:
The wine is at the peak of its development and should be savoured promptly. It remains stable when stored optimally (12-14 °C, dark, moist), but gradually loses its freshness. Careful decanting (30-45 minutes) is recommended to separate sediments and awaken the last flavours.

Suitable dishes:
Classic accompaniments are rack of lamb with truffles, game birds, saddle of venison with cranberries or mature Comté cheese. Also suitable as a meditation wine.

Rating:
A poignant, historic Bordeaux that retains Lafite's signature even in a difficult vintage. Elegance trumps power, with a timeless melancholy. ★★★★☆ (93/100).

Indication:
The 1975 vintage is often overshadowed by the legendary 1970s (e.g. 1976, 1978), but Lafite proves here how discipline is created in the cellar even under stress. Comparable to Château Latour 1975, but with Pauillac's typical finesse. A wine for purists who appreciate the poetry of ageing.