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The Legacy of Tradition

On the mythical gravel plateau of Lafite, generations of men and women have nurtured the vineyards, faithfully passing on the timeless traditions of wine-growing. For more than 150 years, the same family has united in delivering a resolute message of precision and resilience, steadfastly facing the strokes of nature painted across its lands.

"Lafite remains unyielding, yet delicate, and subtle."

In the perpetual cycle of renewal, amidst the ever-changing nature that shapes a distinct destiny each year, Lafite remains unyielding, delicate, and subtle. Like a sage, it retains its immutable character, mirroring the eternal gravel beneath it. With a presence spanning a thousand seasons, its roots and essence whisper of a future already in the making.

The Vineyard

The vineyard of Château Lafite Rothschild encompasses three distinctive areas: the slopes surrounding the Château, the Carruades plateau to the west, and a 4.5-hectare plot in the neighbouring township of Saint-Estèphe. With a total surface area of 112 hectares, the soil consists of fine, deep gravel blended with windblown sand, resting upon a well-drained and well-exposed tertiary limestone subsoil. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot flourish in these vineyards, contributing to the wine's remarkable character.

The Majestic Cedar

An emblem of history, the majestic Lafite cedar has witnessed countless generations of winemakers, perpetuating a cherished tradition. Standing as a guardian for nearly 300 years, this cedar tree appeared eternal. Today, its descendant, lovingly replanted at the dawn of the new millennium, embodies the spirit of Lafite. Its presence leaves an indelible mark, symbolizing the enduring transmission between vines and vintners, conveyed through intertwining roots and timeless stories.

A Journey Through Time

Four hundred years ago, as the Pyrenees and the Massif Central took shape, the Dordogne and Garonne rivers carried alluvial deposits, gradually forming soils composed of gravel. These quaternary-era soils transformed Pauillac into a mythical terroir capable of withstanding even the harshest conditions in the era of climate change.

Within its gravel and clay lies a harmonious balance, regulating water with precision—absorbing, saturating, supporting, tightening, or loosening—nurturing the soil in a measured and abundant manner.

Centuries ago, observant farmers noted subtle variations in the subsoil just a few steps away. They discovered lighter textures and finer compositions. In this very place, a ridge emerged, known in the local Gascon dialect as 'La Hite,' which later gave birth to Lafite. Stone by stone, winegrowers built their homes, recognizing the extraordinary potential that lay before them.

Over time, the dwelling facing this slope expanded, adorned with a wisteria vine that climbed its walls, witnessing the passage of countless generations dedicated to preserving this precious ecosystem. Baroness Betty, wife of Baron James, planted magnificent oak trees that stand sentinel, dividing the vineyard from the marshes. Together, they meticulously safeguarded this flawless creation bestowed upon them by nature. Amidst the woods and marshes, within this almost untamed harmony, the vines of Château Lafite Rothschild flourish.

"Lafite has a soul, a beautiful, kind, and generous soul. Lafite turns the land into a dream. Lafite is harmony, harmony between nature and man because, without our wonderful winemakers, nothing would be done."

As a timeless testament to this protected land, some vines gracefully bear witness to 140 years of ungrafted life. They eluded the ravages of phylloxera that befell their counterparts. These steadfast vines continue to evade their caretakers, inspiring awe and reverence. Vintage after vintage, these devoted winegrowers sculpt, protect, and cherish their divine composition, refining it with unwavering dedication.

It is no coincidence that Lafite earned the prestigious designation of "First of the First" at Napoleon III's Universal Exhibition. Nor will it be a mere chance occurrence when future generations continue to sing its praises long after our time.

The Art of Winemaking

Each barrel of Château Lafite Rothschild is meticulously tasted individually, selecting only the finest for the final blend. After blending, the wine is aged for 15 months in new oak barrels. Fermentation takes place over 15 days, maintained at a controlled temperature of 18°C. For the Grand Vin Château Lafite Rothschild, only vines older than 10 years are utilized. Although every vintage is a unique expression, Cabernet Sauvignon typically dominates, accompanied by Merlot, with a subtle contribution from Petit Verdot.