96

Antonio Galloni

Vinous

The 2020 Lafon-Rochet represents the essence of classicism in Bordeaux. Medium in body and finely-cut, Lafon-Rochet is one of the classiest, more refined Saint-Estèphes readers will come across. Dark fruit, earthiness, lavender, licorice, menthol and cloves add nuance, but it is the wine's balance and vibrancy that impress most. Give the tannins a few years to melt away. Superb. 12/2022

93

Neal Martin

Vinous

The 2020 Lafon-Rochet was bottled at the end of June. It has quite an expressive bouquet, leaning more towards black fruit, touches of undergrowth and pencil box. This is very harmonious and actually quite similar in style to the Phélan-Ségur. The palate is medium-bodied with very pliant tannins, well judged acidity, fresh and displaying commendable depth. Hints of black pepper and cedar, a pleasing strictness on the finish, whereas I commented that it was quite Pomerol-like out of barrel, now it is much more Pauillac in style, with graphite lingering on the aftertaste. Excellent. 12/2022

91+

William Kelley

Robert Parker/Wine Advocate

The 2020 Lafon-Rochet opens in the glass with aromas of cassis, plums and licorice, followed by a medium to full-bodied, deep palate with good concentration, lively acids and plenty of powdery structuring tannin that asserts itself on the finish. This, too, is more structured than its 2019 counterpart and will require a bit of patience. 04/2023

94

Jean-Marc Quarin

Jean-Marc Quarin

Couleur sombre, intense et pourpre. Nez très aromatique, fin, fruité, pur et subtil. Nuances de mûre, de cerise et de fleurs. Ample dès l’attaque, juteux en milieu de bouche où il se montre particulièrement bien construit, le vin évolue puissant, complet et long, sur une finale savoureuse, au grain fin. Une grande réussite. Pour mémoire, Lafon Rochet possède beaucoup d’argile sur une partie de son terroir. Assemblage : 61 % cabernet sauvignon, 33 % merlot, 3 % cabernet franc, 3 % petit verdot. Degré d’alcool : 13,5° - pH : 3,68.

91

James Suckling

James Suckling

Subtle dried spices and berries with chocolate undertones. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins and a savory finish. Fresh and bright. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but better in a year or two and onwards. 05/2023