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Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Vinous
1996 Chateau Lafite Rothschild – Pauillac First Growth with Proven Longevity
The 1996 Chateau Lafite Rothschild is a reference-point Left Bank wine from one of the Médoc’s greatest vintages. As one of the five First Growth Bordeaux estates, Lafite has long been associated with elegance, restraint, and remarkable cellar life. The 1996 vintage embodies this legacy with impeccable structure and classic Pauillac character.
Tasting Notes
Now nearly three decades in bottle, the 1996 Lafite offers a regal profile of graphite, blackcurrant, violet, and cedar. A mineral-driven mid-palate carries notes of cigar box, crushed stone, and a whisper of earthy sous-bois. The tannins are remarkably fine and integrated, supporting a long, linear finish. A wine that demands contemplation and rewards patience.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
Produced from the estate’s gravel-dominant parcels in Pauillac, the 1996 blend is approximately 83% Cabernet Sauvignon and 17% Merlot. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel before aging in 100% new French oak for 18–20 months. The estate’s deep, well-drained soils and meticulous vineyard practices contribute to the wine’s purity and longevity.
Investment & Collectibility
Widely regarded as one of Lafite’s top post-1982 vintages, the 1996 has earned a place in serious collections for its balance of austerity and evolution. Its market track record remains strong, and bottles with pristine provenance are increasingly scarce. Perfect for your collection or for anchoring a vertical of Lafite Rothschild wines.
Vintage Insights
1996 was a benchmark vintage for the Left Bank, with a long, dry growing season and exceptional conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon. Pauillac was especially favored, yielding wines with high tannin, crisp acidities, and remarkable aging potential. Today, the 1996 Lafite is in its prime, though it continues to evolve gracefully.