Parker about Château Lafite Rothschild 1981
This wine is close to full maturity, but it is capable of holding for another two decades. It reveals the classic Lafite bouquet of red and black fruits, cedar, fruitcake, and tobacco-like aromas. In the mouth, this medium ruby/garnet-colored wine displays a delicacy of fruit and sweet attack, but subtle, well-defined flavors ranging from tobacco, cigar box, cedar, and fruitcake. This is a savory, soft Lafite-Rothschild that is pleasing to both the intellect and the palate.
Description
Land | France |
Region | Bordeaux-Pauillac |
Rebsorten | Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot |
Alkoholgehalt | 12.50% |
Füllstand | Into Neck |
Verschlußart | cork stopper |
Kennzeichnung | Contains sulphites |
Farbe | Red |
Inverkehrbringer | Château Lafite-Rothschild, 33250 Pauillac, France |
Charakter | Dry |
Servierempfehlung | Decant at 16-18°C |
Trinkempfehlung | 1990 - 2036 |
Parker Punkte | 91 |
Jahrgang | 1981 |
Bordeaux-Pauillac, France 🇫🇷
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Château Lafite Rothschild 1981

Château Lafite Rothschild 1981 is a classic Bordeaux wine from the renowned Pauillac appellation. This vintage showcases the elegance and finesse for which Lafite Rothschild is known.
The wine presents a deep ruby red with light brick-red reflections, indicating its maturity. The bouquet is complex and seductive, with aromas of ripe red fruits such as cherries and raspberries, complemented by subtle notes of black currants, tobacco, cedarwood, and a hint of leather. Finely nuanced spice notes and a subtle earthiness lend the wine additional depth and complexity.
On the palate, Château Lafite Rothschild 1981 presents an elegant structure with fine-grained, well-integrated tannins. The fruit aromas are well-preserved and harmonious, supported by nuances of dark chocolate, mocha, and a fine mineral note. The acidity is well-balanced and gives the wine a pleasant freshness that underlines its complexity.
The finish is long and elegant, with lingering fruit and spice notes that delight the palate long after the last sip. The harmonious balance between fruit, tannin, and acidity demonstrates the great potential of this wine, which continues to impress even after more than four decades.
Château Lafite Rothschild 1981 is a true delight, demonstrating the excellence and craftsmanship that make this winery one of the finest in the world. A wine of exceptional refinement and beauty, it impressively reflects the tradition and quality of the Pauillac appellation and delights wine lovers around the world.