Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Pessac-Leognan 2022 PRE-ARRIVAL

Pre-arrival. Estimated to be available December 2024.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte, has a storied history dating back to the 14th century. The estate was named after George Smith, a Scottish wine merchant who acquired it in the 18th century and added "Haut Lafitte" to highlight its prime location on a gravelly ridge. Renowned for its exceptional red and white wines, it was revitalized in 1990 by the Cathiard family, who introduced sustainable practices and modernized winemaking while preserving its heritage. Today, the château is celebrated for its commitment to biodynamics, artisanal craftsmanship, and producing world-class wines.

98 Points James Suckling
The polish, texture, complexity and patina are very impressive and fascinating. So spicy and interesting with so much going on. Medium body with wonderfully integrated tannins that are cut and nicely chiselled already. Lemon and violet. 64% cabernet sauvignon, 32% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot.

98 Points Jeb Dunnuck
Moving to the Grand Vin, the 2022 Château Smith Haut Lafitte checks in as 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. This ripe, powerful, concentrated wine reminds me of the 2010 with its structure, concentrated mid-palate, and just sheer density and regal, full-bodied style on the palate. Despite its size, it stays balanced, has a beautiful perfume of sweet black fruits, graphite, scorched earth, and spring flowers, building tannins, and a great, great finish.

97 Points Decanter 
A real success of the vintage that manages to deliver a bold, structured, concentrated and powerful wine with real terroir signature. You get the impression it’s from a warm vintage, but I love the fact you have texture, volume and weight but keeping the finesse. Fragranced black fruit and purple floral notes with soft medicinal herbal touches on the nose. Sleek and supple, tannins make the impression with juicy blackcurrants, black cherries and strawberries. Excellent tannin definition, they’re filling, massy and round, almost plush but accented by acidity and freshness. Strong signature, you know you're in gravel with Cabernet. Juicy, clean, pure, but with bite and intensity. I love the dark savoury notes too, the cough syrup, liquorice, clove, tobacco and cigar box elements, complex and captivating. 4% press. 3.65pH 30% whole bunch Petit Verdot in the blend. Potential upsore in bottle. 1% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 60% new oak barrels.

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