2020 Carruades de Lafite, Pauillac

Tasting Note

Wine Advocate: 91-93
Deep purple-black in color, the 2020 Carruades de Lafite, like its big sibling, is a little youthfully shy to begin, soon unfurling to offer notes of Morello cherries, raspberry leaves, baked blackberries and spice box, plus suggestions of pencil lead, lavender and Provence herbs. The medium-bodied palate is chock-full of juicy black fruits, framed by velvety tannins and tons of freshness, finishing long and lifted. This 2020 is a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot.

Neal Martin: 89-91
The 2020 Carruades de Lafite is clean and precise on the nose, the undergrowth/autumn leaf scents permeating the predominantly black fruit, and light peppermint aromas unfurling with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Quite linear in style, particularly toward the finish, where it seems to not want to put a foot wrong. A Deuxième Vin that just needs to loosen its tie and let it all hang out a bit more.

Antonio Galloni: 91-93
The 2020 Carruades de Lafite is so expressive right out of the gate. Sage, mint, dried herbs, tobacco and incense grace the Carruades with gorgeous aromatic presence. A backbone of fine tannins lends energy and direction. Medium in body and impeccably refined, the 2020 Carruades is shaping up to be a gem.