2020 Carruades de Lafite, Pauillac, Bordeaux

Cabernet Sauvignon 52%, Merlot 42%, Cabernet Franc 3%, Petit Verdot 3%

There is more Merlot in this year’s blend (up from 27% in 2019). This is in part due to the variety’s success in ’20, but also the availability of the key Merlot plots Grande Horte, Barat and Gandeau. The Merlot does its job beautifully, lending gloss and intensity. But it is still the concentrated, small-berried Cabernet Sauvignon which drives the wine’s line and complexity. Precision and detail are the watchwords of the current team; this has been deftly and skilfully created.

Drink 2026-2040