The 2025 Carruades de Lafite is a total stunner. It's a great example of how Bordeaux has come along in the last few decades, in that it could have easily been a Grand Vin from another generation— maybe not from a great year, but from many years. Brisk acids and strong floral overtones immediately convey energy. Hints of lavender, rose petal, graphite and spice box are classic Lafite; all the Carruades lacks vis-àvis its sibling is the classic Lafite midpalate. This should blossom beautifully with time, and I would be in no rush to open it. What a delight. ~ (94) Antonio Galloni , Vinous 4-28-2026

A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet France and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2025 Carruades de Lafite exhibits notes of sweet plums and berries mingled with notions of orange zest, cedar and cigar wrapper. Medium- to full-bodied, supple and fleshy, with powdery tannins, lively acids and a gently chalky finish, it checks in at 12.5% alcohol. ~ (93) William Kelley, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 4-30-2026

The energy in the glass in immediately in evidence, richly fragrant autumnal berry fruit, great lift through the palate, mouthwatering on the finish, good balance, chalky, slate-filled tannins, classic, balanced, slate and pumice stone, lots of cassis and bilberry fruit, harvest September 2 - 20. 3.8ph. ~ (93) Jane Anson, Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux 4-7-2026

Blackcurrant and graphite notes. Suave attack then plenty of drive. Solid structure with well-extracted tannins. Freshness as well. Should age. ~ (17) James Lawther, JancisRobinson.com 4-14-2026

A tight and linear red with red currant, sweet tobacco and cedar aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, fine and creamy tannins. Bright finish. Extremely fine texture for the second wine of Lafite. Typical character of Carruades. A blend of 55% cabernet sauvignon, 34% merlot, 9% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot. ~ (96) James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 5-4-2026

The 2025 Carruades de Lafite has quite an understated bouquet that needs a little more encouragement than usual. Blackberry, pencil box and light estuarine scents gradually unfurl. Fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied, with sapid black fruit on the entry, gentle grip, wonderful balance and plenty of freshness and brightness on the finish. What a superb Carruades. ~ (94) Neal Martin, Vinous 5-7-2026

An incredibly elegant second wine (which is classic Lafite), the 2025 Carruades De Lafite has cassis, raspberries, crushed violets, graphite, and spicy wood on the nose. Based on 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, it's medium-bodied on the palate, with a very pure, focused mouthfeel, polished tannins, and flawless balance. It checks in at 12.69% alcohol with a pH of 3.62. ~ (95) Jeb Dunnuck, JebDunnuck.com 5-11-2026