Château Lafite Rothschild 1987

Report on Château Lafite Rothschild 1987

This report summarises the most important information on the 1987 vintage of the famous Premier Cru Classé Château Lafite Rothschild, based on tasting notes, expert reviews and market data.

1. Overview of the 1987 vintage

The 1987 vintage in Bordeaux was characterised by difficult weather conditions. A hot and dry summer was followed by heavy rain, which lasted throughout the harvest . This led to a low yield ("meager yield") . The winegrowers at Château Lafite Rothschild met the challenges of the weather with a strict selection of the grapes . The aim was to produce harmonious wines despite the adverse conditions. These efforts resulted in a wine that is described as very balanced, delicate and fruity .

2. Vinification and grape varieties

Château Lafite Rothschild is vinified as a classic Bordeaux blend. A precise grape variety composition is given for the 1987 vintage:

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 71%

• Merlot: 25%

• Cabernet Franc: 3%

• Petit Verdot: 2%

This blend gives the wine structure, fruit and complexity.

3. Critics' ratings at a glance

The ratings for the Lafite 1987 are in the medium to very good range. The following table provides an overview of the most important critics' opinions:

4. Tasting notes and development

The tasting notes paint a picture of a wine that has evolved elegantly over the years and is now at a mature stage.

• Colour: Deep ruby red, already showing a certain maturity with light brown brick tones (bricking) on the rim .

• Nose: The bouquet is described as complex and multi-layered. In addition to notes of cedar wood, pencil mint (graphite) and tobacco, earthy and mushroomy aromas (forest floor, truffles) also emerge . Some tasters initially mentioned a "barnyard" note (stable odour), but this dissipated with a little air .

• Palate: On the palate, the wine is surprisingly elegant and supple. The tannins are finely integrated and appear silky . The fruit has receded into the background and mainly gives way to tertiary flavours . The acidity is present but not dominant . The finish is described as medium to long and pleasant .

• Overall impression and drinking window: The wine is generally categorised as "ready to drink" . It is described by various tasters as positively surprising, especially in view of the difficult vintage . It is recommended not to decant the wine for too long, as it can lose flavour after about 30-60 minutes in the glass . Most sources advise enjoying existing bottles over the next few years, as the wine has reached or already passed its peak .

5. Current market prices

Château Lafite Rothschild 1987 is traded on the secondary market. Prices vary depending on the condition of the bottle, the level and the provenance. The following price examples provide an orientation:

• €600-700€ (incl. VAT)

6. Summary

The Château Lafite Rothschild 1987 is proof of the art of winemaking in a difficult year. It is not a powerful or extract-rich wine, but is characterised by its elegance, finesse and the typical Lafite breed. After several decades of ageing in the bottle, it has evolved into a complex, fully developed red wine with earthy and spicy notes. For lovers of old Bordeaux wines, it offers an interesting and thoroughly rewarding drinking experience that shows the softer side of this famous wine estate.