Lafon-Rochet is in a choice location, in one of the most prestigious wine growing areas in the world, between Cos d'Estournel and Lafite-Rothschild. It is thus hardly surprising that Guy Tesseron, famous for the quality of his old Cognac, was attracted to Lafon-Rochet some 40+ years ago. After acquiring the estate, he decided that the existing cellar was unworthy of such a fine wine, and had it razed. He built an entirely new cellar and, in a highly unusual move, built a new chateau as well, in the style of the 17th-century chartreuse manor house. Thanks to the great care and attention lavished on Lafon-Rochet, it has become one of the standard bearers of the great wines of Saint-Estèphe in France and around the world.
The nose is fine, toasted, with licorice and lets appear cherry notes, slightly peppery, after agitation. The attack is fleshy and smoothy with silky tannins. Well-balanced in the mouth with tangy notes. The finale brings sweetness and freshness while finding the licorice notes back.
94 Points - Wine Enthusiast
Owned by the Tesseron family, this wine is smoky, ripe and full of tannins as well as blackberry fruit. Density gives it potential, and this wine from an estate that is performing well should be ready from 2024.
93 Points - Decanter
This is a lovely St-Estephe this year, firm and bright with bristling fruit right out of the gate - hugely unusual to see that this year. This is one of my favourites, and is totally charming with its cassis and damson fruit, but it's the juice and friendly tension that sets it apart. Silky and enjoyable.
91 Points - James Suckling
Aromas of smoke and tobacco with some currants, too. Medium body. Chewy tannins and an herb and berry aftertaste. Shows attractive fruit drive at the end.
90 Points - Wine Spectator
Fresh red currant and black cherry fruit mingles nicely with lilac and tobacco notes. Judicious toast provides the frame, while the finish features a solid tug of iron.
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