The 2009 Lafite was exquisite, and it spoke to me immediately as a wine of perfection, with a pronounced, forward aroma of blackcurrant and pomegranate fruit with hints of violets, spice, smoke, and earth. The texture was lush and seductive, with impressive density, balanced freshness, and enough extract to draw this to an unbelievably long finish. Oddly to me, it was not the unanimous favourite of the assembled tasters, but defending this beautiful wine is a battle I will eagerly take on.