Since the latter part of the 19th century, the Rothschild family has created some of the finest wines ever produced. Making wine from the greatest vineyards carries great responsibility, and with generations of expertise, Château Lafite remains firmly at the pinnacle of viticultural achievement.

The sale brings together Château Lafite Rothschild from the 1970s alongside a selection of other great wines, all of which have remained in situ since release, quietly maturing in the cellars of Stowell Park, Wiltshire. The Lafite wines were delivered directly from the estate and laid down in dark, undisturbed bins—until now.

The 1970s marked a pivotal moment in the history of Lafite Rothschild. Following two challenging decades, cellar practices were transformed, setting the estate on the path to the excellence we recognise today.

The 1970, 1975 and 1976 vintages we tasted capture this moment in time. To experience them some 50 years later is a rare privilege. While cellar practices were simpler than today, there was a deep understanding of the vineyards and a responsiveness to the conditions of each year—qualities that resonate in every glass. The complexity at this age is extraordinary.

Dreweatts’ Senior Wine Consultant, Mark Robertson shares some thoughts after tasting.

“Each vintage possesses its own distinct character - I adored them all. All are exactly as they should be at this age. There is no doubt that drinking these wines with food will lift everything, especially the conversation.

The 1975, my personal favourite, is a little fuller-bodied than the 1976.

The 1976 will appeal to those who love a more ethereal, sublime Lafite.

The 1970 is a lighter style for those who enjoy graceful, timeless, elegance.

1962 Chateau Coutet, Barsac, like walking into a St James's Club with drying raisins hanging from every wall, chandelier or even draped over the pin-striped suits. Golden brown in colour, the nose is of dark chocolate, leather, candle wax, orange peel and a whiff of smoky Autumn air. Complexity would be an understatement. The beautifully balanced honeyed, silky fruit and acidity suggest that this 1962 is now as it should be. Why wait a moment longer? Friends will be made and affirmed over a bottle.”

Other Bordeaux highlights include the 1964 Cheval Blanc, a monument to Bordeaux, like liquid velvet and still youthful at 62 years, alongside magnums of the outstanding 1982 Beychevelle. Both are at the peak of their powers, simply majestic wines.

Beyond Bordeaux, the Burgundy and Champagne section is sensational. Originally selected by the late Lady Rothschild, it features vintages from 1976, 1996, 1999, and 2002, with esteemed estates such as Krug, Rousseau, Dujac, and de Vogüé. This cellar is more than just a Bordeaux museum, it is a tour de force of France’s most revered vineyards.

The exceptional cellarage and impeccable provenance make this a rare opportunity—one that may not be seen again. We invite you to join Dreweatts in experiencing this extraordinary sale.

Auction Details

This is a live online auction with an auctioneer. The auction will take place on Tuesday 28 April (starting at 10.30am BST) at Dreweatts Newbury, but please note all wine and spirits are stored off-site at LCB Eton Park. Bidding is available online, by telephone, by commission bids or in person at Dreweatts. Please contact Dreweatts to register all commission bids or telephone bids by 12 noon BST the day before the sale.

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THINKING OF SELLING?
Our specialists can provide valuations on single bottles and entire cellars, as well as advice on starting and maintaining your cellar. For further details or a free auction valuation, please contact: Dreweatts Wine Department
Mark Robertson | Violette Jongbloed | Emily Clarke | Lucy Dadd
Direct tel: +44 (0) 1635 553 594
Main tel: +44 (0) 1635 553 553
Email: wine@dreweatts.com

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