12 bottles per lot
Details
Château Lafite-Rothschild--Vintage 1996
Pauillac, 1er cru classé
In original wooden case
Tasting Note: It was showing very well at the MW tasting of '96s in November 2000: still plummy and immature; more earthy than expected but fragrant and with depth. On the palate, crisp, lovely flavour and length. Last noted at Rodenstock's blind tasting of first-growth '94s, '95s, '96s and '97s. Slight bottle variation. Both bottles (of the '96) with opaque core, the first a bit vegetal though a classic Cabernet; rather raw; the second seemed to have better fruit, tannin and acidity. I was interested to note, when all had been revealed, that the average score of the pretty experienced tasters only slightly varies, ranging from 92 to 95 points, most 93 and 94. Lafite was the latter though my own rating was one point less. As so often, a wine that needs time, and patience. Last tasted March 2001 (****) Possibly 2012 - 2030 M.B.
12 bottles per lot
Pauillac, 1er cru classé
In original wooden case
Tasting Note: It was showing very well at the MW tasting of '96s in November 2000: still plummy and immature; more earthy than expected but fragrant and with depth. On the palate, crisp, lovely flavour and length. Last noted at Rodenstock's blind tasting of first-growth '94s, '95s, '96s and '97s. Slight bottle variation. Both bottles (of the '96) with opaque core, the first a bit vegetal though a classic Cabernet; rather raw; the second seemed to have better fruit, tannin and acidity. I was interested to note, when all had been revealed, that the average score of the pretty experienced tasters only slightly varies, ranging from 92 to 95 points, most 93 and 94. Lafite was the latter though my own rating was one point less. As so often, a wine that needs time, and patience. Last tasted March 2001 (****) Possibly 2012 - 2030 M.B.
12 bottles per lot
Special notice
Offered duty paid, but available in bond. VAT at 17.5% will be charged on the hammer price on removal of the lot from bond.