Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte 2023

The 2023 Château Smith Haut Lafitte offers black currants, smoky tobacco, graphite and subtle espresso. Composed of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, it is medium- to full-bodied with impressive concentration and focus. Ripe tannins provide structure, while chalky minerality and freshness define the finish. Beautifully balanced and exceptionally pure.

98 Points - James Suckling

Currant, tobacco and hazelnut aromas lead into a medium-bodied palate with vibrant, crunchy fruit and attractive open-grained, velvety tannins. Graceful, fresh and beautifully composed, it combines immediate appeal with excellent underlying structure. From biodynamically grown grapes, the blend is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Best from 2028 onward.

97 Points - Decanter

Dark and intensely fragrant, with roses and floral notes introducing a cool, fresh profile. The substantial palate combines powdery tannins with juicy fruit, mint, graphite, wet stone, herbs, cocoa and licorice. More muscular and streamlined than typically suave expressions of Smith Haut Lafitte, it nevertheless retains finesse, freshness and tension. Chewy strawberry and cranberry notes add further complexity to this structured, age-worthy wine. 

96 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2023 Smith Haut Lafitte offers aromas of licorice, spices, dark berries, rose petals and clove. Medium- to full-bodied, dense and precisely structured, it possesses a fleshy, concentrated core surrounded by abundant yet seamlessly integrated tannins. A long, mineral and penetrating finish reinforces its impressive potential for extended cellaring.

94 Points - Wine Spectator

Bold and generously styled, with mocha and bittersweet cocoa leading into plum reduction, blackberry preserves and melted black licorice. Roasted vanilla, chestnut and sweet tobacco enrich the finish, while an earthy, loamy element provides balance and structure. A powerful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.