Scores
94
Robert Parker
The 2024 Lafleur is an ode to leisurely, slow ripening, offering a delicately perfumed bouquet of violets, cherries, cassis, flowers and spices. Medium to full-bodied, layered and pure, it's seamless and polished with ultrarefined tannins and a delicate yet vibrant core of fruit, culminating in a long, ethereal finish laced with rose petal nuances. Less dense and structured than many recent vintages, it evokes the charm and elegance of 1983 or 1985, reimagined through a modern lens (and a cooler, wetter growing season), both in viticulture and vinification.
96
Vinous
The 2024 Lafleur was picked September 20 to September 30. It has a discrete bouquet which is unusual for Lafleur at this stage, very harmonious with a mixture of blackcurrant and graphite scents, erring towards Left Bank in style as this Pomerol is wont to do. The palate is medium-bodied with a dash of white pepper on the entry. There is an entrancing symmetry to this Lafleur, and it feels very composed and poised towards the finish, which the Bouchet [Cabernet Franc] has shaped. This is a multi-faceted Lafleur, which is some achievement in this growing season. It will be fascinating to watch evolve in bottle.
98+
James Suckling
A superb red for the vintage with so much character, singing Lafleur like a world-class opera singer. So spicy and floral, showing tobacco, cherries and redcurrants. Some milk chocolate and truffles. Complex with seductive tannins and creamy acidity. Wonderful length. Reminds me of the 1978. A blend of 45% merlot and 55% bouchet (cabernet franc).
96
Decanter
Fragranced cherry and raspberry fruit, great clarity on the nose, floral and red fruit. Structured and firm, this has a sweet, and cherry plump core with a real salty freshness and such a joyful touch to the palate. Lifted, smooth, light, well balanced, a touch of Pomerol evocatism and charm here while actually being light footed, almost glamorous in terms of aroma and lingering flavours but straightens and focuses in terms of texture on the finish. Incredibly approachable already. Excellent. It has a depth of flavour and texture that is very compelling. Easy to recommend.