Carruades de Lafite

Winter, with its 500 mm of rainfall, allowed for good replenishment of groundwater reserves. In March, the cold delayed budburst until between April 5 and 19. Spring was rainy, encouraging the onset of mildew. In May, the warmth greatly stimulated vine growth. Flowering took place around May 25 under good conditions. June turned tropical, requiring strict organic protection against downy mildew. The long-awaited veraison began in early August. Two heatwaves followed (from August 15 to 25 and from September 2 to 10), accelerating ripening and bringing beneficial stress. For Carruades, the diversity of terroirs and vine ages led to more varied responses. At harvest, it was necessary to react quickly in the young vines, where some Cabernet Sauvignon had to be picked before the Merlots. A true balancing act right through to the end of September! The surprise of the 2023 blends: a Carruades with only two grape varieties — 40% Merlot and 60% Cabernet Sauvignon — leaving out Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Another particular feature this year: we are extending the aging in wooden vats to preserve the energy of this vintage.