The 1996 Lafleur is not a vintage that I have seen much, although the bottom line is that in this tricky Right Bank season it is better than the disappointing Petrus. Raspberry, black truffle and leather on the rather lean nose, the palate stocky and burly if missing the refinement and precision of a great vintage. There is a sense of attractiveness to this Lafleur, but it does lack that crucial ingredient – charm.
Vinous - Score: 90 (2018 November)
The 1996 Lafleur is not a vintage that I have seen much, although the bottom line is that in this tricky Right Bank season it is better than the disappointing Petrus. Raspberry, black truffle and leather on the rather lean nose, the palate stocky and burly if missing the refinement and precision of a great vintage. There is a sense of attractiveness to this Lafleur, but it does lack that crucial ingredient – charm.