Weather: The 1964 vintage was notable for having a cooler growing season, with moderate temperatures. There was a delay in the harvest, and the year was marked by some challenges, but the wine ultimately benefitted from good ripening conditions in the latter stages.
Style: The wine produced in 1964 was known for being balanced and structured, with good acidity and moderate tannins, providing a long aging potential.
Blend:
Château Lafite Rothschild typically blends the following grape varieties in its wines:
Cabernet Sauvignon: The dominant grape, contributing structure and ageability.
Merlot: Adds fruitiness and roundness.
Cabernet Franc: Brings complexity and aromatic freshness.
Petit Verdot: A small percentage is sometimes included for added depth.
Tasting Notes:
Color: Deep ruby with garnet hues, which has evolved into a more mature, tawny color over the decades.
Nose: Aromas of ripe black fruits like blackcurrant and plum, along with earthy, tobacco, and graphite notes. Subtle hints of cedar, leather, and forest floor often develop with age.
Palate: Medium-bodied, with a smooth texture. The wine shows complexity, with flavors of dark fruits, spices, and a fine, balanced structure. It has good acidity, with tannins that have softened over time, providing elegance and longevity.
Finish: The finish is long and refined, with the depth of flavors lingering.
Aging Potential:
Château Lafite Rothschild wines are known for their exceptional aging potential, and the 1964 vintage has continued to evolve beautifully over the years. It is a wine that has matured into a classic example of Bordeaux elegance and complexity, but only bottles stored properly will retain their quality. Given its age, this wine would now be showing signs of maturity but still holding on to some depth and character.
Value:
The 1964 vintage is considered one of the more accessible, older vintages from this prestigious estate, but it still commands a high price in the market due to its rarity and provenance. Collectors and connoisseurs value it highly, especially if it comes from a well-maintained cellar.
When to Drink:
While Château Lafite Rothschild wines are famous for their aging potential, the 1964 vintage is considered to be near its peak now and might not improve much further. However, it can still offer great drinking experiences for those with a well-stored bottle.