A sinuous line of tannins runs through this structured wine. It lifts the dark plum and berry fruits and give shape to the spicy, firm wine. As the estate builds in strength, the style of this perfumed, stylish wine will be seen as a benchmark. Drink from 2025.

The 2015 Lafon-Rochet has a lifted, perfumed bouquet of ample blackberry and raspberry aromas. The oak here is nearly entwined with graphite and cigar box aromas developing in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine definition, quite filigreed tannin (for a Saint Estèphe) that frame a smooth, quite pure blackberry and strawberry finish with plenty of white pepper on the aftertaste. This is a fine Lafon-Rochet from Basile Tesseron and his team. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.

The medium garnet-purple colored 2015 Lafon-Rochet is reduced on the nose to begin, with tar and earth aromas over black fruits and herbs. The medium-bodied palate is vibrant and refreshing with firm, grainy tannins.

Fresh and pure, with a beam of cassis, lilac, alder and iron notes that are nicely integrated. Shows polished edges on the finish, with a flash of austerity. The only knock is a lack of overall energy and depth. Everything is here, just at a slightly reduced level. Drink now through 2030. 9,167 cases made.