Château Lafite Rothschild (1959)

About this wine

The 1959 Château Lafite Rothschild offers a captivating bouquet of cedar, tobacco leaf, cigar box, spice, graphite, herbs, dried flowers, and currants. On the palate, it delivers a powerful yet elegant display of red fruits, spice, earth, and tobacco, with a seamless texture and a finish that lingers for over a minute. This vintage is renowned for its remarkable aging potential, with some bottles still exhibiting vibrant fruit and structure even after several decades. The 1959 harvest began on September 23, yielding 'très grands vins' according to château records. This wine stands as a testament to the exceptional quality and longevity of Château Lafite Rothschild's offerings.

About the grape

In the 1959 Château Lafite Rothschild, the grape blend was predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its deep color and tannic structure, thrives in Pauillac's gravelly soils, contributing to the wine's longevity. Merlot adds softness and roundness, balancing the firmness of Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc introduces aromatic complexity, while Petit Verdot, used sparingly, enhances color and adds subtle spice notes. This combination of varietals, each bringing unique characteristics, has been a hallmark of Château Lafite Rothschild's winemaking tradition.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1959 Château Lafite Rothschild is renowned for its exceptional quality, often considered one of the greatest vintages produced by the estate.
• ☀️ This vintage was produced during a notably hot year, resulting in grapes that achieved full ripeness, contributing to the wine's rich flavors and longevity.
• 🌿 The 1959 vintage is celebrated for its complex bouquet, featuring aromas of black currants, cedar, and spices, with a silky, lingering finish.
• 🏆 Over the years, this vintage has garnered high praise and numerous awards, further cementing its place in the history of fine wines.
• ⏳ Bottles from this year continue to evolve and impress, even decades later, showcasing the wine's remarkable aging potential.

Palate profile

Producer

Château Lafite Rothschild, located in Pauillac, France, traces its origins to the 13th century, with the name 'Lafite' derived from the Gascon term 'la hite,' meaning 'hillock.' The estate gained prominence in the 17th century under Jacques de Ségur, who established its reputation for excellence. In 1868, Baron James de Rothschild acquired the property, and it has remained under the Rothschild family's stewardship since. Notably, in 1855, Château Lafite Rothschild was classified as a Premier Grand Cru, solidifying its status among the world's finest wines.