Carruades de Lafite 1996 1x75cl

Jancis Robinson

Mainly from young vines and the north-facing plots across the main road from the Château. Dark ruby with some age. Aristocratic fragrance. Lovely build with real freshness and fruit concentration. Far too good for the prices charged then for Carruades! Really subtle and Lafite-like. Racy. This is a really lovely wine for current drinking. Anyone who bought it en primeur should feel so proud of themselves. 17.5/20 points 

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

A very intense, expressive nose of blackberry, espresso and an animal quality. Good definition, almost Rhone-like. Smooth entry, full-bodied. Blackberry, coffee, huge tannins. Muscular, again almost Rhone-like. Very high extraction with a pain grille finish. Needs another five years at least. Slight astringency on the finish.

Wine Spectator

Aromas of currant and cigar box. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish.