MAG Lafite Rothschild 2009

The main reason the 2009 Lafite Rothschild did not receive a perfect score is because the wine has closed down slightly, but it is unquestionably another profound Lafite, their greatest wine since the amazing 2003. Among the most powerful Lafites ever made (it came in at 13.59% alcohol), the final blend was 82.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot. The selection was incredibly severe with only 45% of the crop being utilized. A tight, but potentially gorgeous nose of graphite, black currants, licorice and camphor is followed by a full-bodied wine revealing the classic elegance, purity and delineated style of Lafite. It is phenomenally concentrated with softer tannins than the 2005, the 2003's voluptuous, broad, juicy personality, and low acidity. There are several vintages that I thought were a replay of their colossal 1959, most notably 1982 and 2003, but 2009 is also one to keep an eye on.

Neal Martin 96/100

The 2009 Lafite-Rothschild appears to be improving with age to the point where against form, I actually think it has the edge over the 2010. It is certainly deeper in colour and exhibits more fruit than the succeeding vintage with blackberry, bilberry, fresh mint and classic pencil lead aromas. The aromatics feel full and complete. The palate is very well balanced with impressive density – not always a facet of Lafite-Rothschild. The 2009 is a powerful wine, with allspice and cracked black pepper towards the weighty, assertive and exuberant finish. Perhaps in the long run the 2009 will be overtaken by the 2010 but at this moment, I would not bet against the staying power of this stupendous First Growth.