2021 Lafon-Rochet (St-Estephe)

The last vintage produced under the Tesseron family, the 2021 Lafon-Rochet exhibits aromas of dark berries, plums, licorice and spices, followed by a medium-bodied, lively and succulent palate that`s fleshy and layered, framed by powdery tannins. A charming, supple effort, it will drink well on release. 89-91 points

The 2021 Poujeaux offers terrific energy to match its mid-weight, yet fleshy personality. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, mint and sage come together effortlessly. The 2021 is beautifully rendered. It`s one of the under the radar gems of the year. Tasted three times. 89-91 points

The 2021 Lafon-Rochet is a wine of notable precision. It will be interesting to see if it gains a bit more flesh in élevage. Today, the 2021 is decidedly lithe in feel. Crushed flowers, mint, rose petal and bright acids lend energy to a core of red berry fruit. Captivating in its inner perfume and elegance, Lafon-Rochet is the most Pauillac-like of the Saint-Estèphes. 91-93 points

Saline and linear, blueberry and raspberry fruits, with a touch of greengage and raspberry leaf that suggests things are just skirting ripenss. Floral aromatics lift things up as it travels through the palate, but the finish is soft and a little diluted. Plenty of change happening at this 41ha estate that is located just over the border from Pauillac, next to Lafite and Cos d`Estournel, with Jacky Lorenzetti arriving as new owner in January 2022, and Christophe Congé appointed technical director a few months later, arriving from Lafite, making 2021 a transition vintage - particularly difficult in such a tough year. 32hl/h yield, 70% 1st wine. 2nd year in official conversion to organic, wll be certified with 2023 vintage. Harvest 27 to October 8. 30hl/h yield, 50% new oak. Tasted twice. 88 points