Château Lafon-Rochet 2024

The 2024 vintage: a testament to organic farming

The 2024 vintage will be remembered by Médoc winemakers as one of the most challenging to date, marked by unprecedented climatic and disease pressures. Nonetheless, this adversity bore an exceptional vintage that embodies the three pillars of Lafon-Rochet: freshness, power, and indulgence.

Beginning under high pressure

From the start of winter, weather conditions signalled a difficult season ahead. Rainfall in February and March was twice the normal level, combined with unusually mild temperatures (+15% above average). This warm and humid climate created an ideal environment for mildew development, threatening the health of the vines even before bud break. Constant monitoring and responsiveness were required to maintain vineyard health and continue our journey toward organic certification.

A fierce battle against mildew

Mildew pressure remained high throughout the season, demanding rigorous vineyard management. Our strategy of cover cropping across much of the estate proved instrumental, preserving soil health and facilitating vineyard work. An exceptionally rainy May led to significant coulure, greatly reducing yield potential. Paradoxically, this lower yield contributed to optimal grape maturity, particularly for the Cabernets. Summer provided some relief, with rainfall one- third below seasonal averages despite there being scarce sunshine. Véraison played a crucial role in reducing the grapes’ vulnerability to mildew, giving the team a much-needed respite. Nevertheless, we continued our efforts to maximise sunlight exposure and optimise ripening.

A harvest in two acts

The harvest took place in two stages: Merlots were picked quickly in September, while the Cabernets and Petit Verdots were left until the first days of October to reach optimum maturity. Our two main Cabernet terroirs responded beautifully, from the deep gravel soils lying north and south of the estate to the magical clay-gravel soils of the western plateau.

Rewarded with a vintage of balance and character

The 2024 vintage stands out for its remarkable balance, with pure and ripe aromatics, natural freshness and moderate alcohol levels, underpinned by precise and refined density. The indulgent and savoury finish perfectly crowns this year of intensive labour.