Château Smith Haut Lafitte 2016 [magnum]

VERTDEVIN

The nose is fruity and elegant. It reveals fine notes of lemon and discreet hints of grapefruit associated with slight hints of crunchy white peach, a discreet hint of exotic fruits as well as a subtle hint of racy minerality and an imperceptible hint of beeswax. The palate is fruity, well-balanced and offers a beautiful fat, roundness, a good volume, a beautiful finesse, precision as well as elegance. In the mouth this wine expresses notes of ripe lemon and slight notes of clementine associated with discreet hints of pineapple, vine peach as well as a very discreet hint of oak (on the finish) that come to around the fruit. Good length and persistence with a very slight hint of beeswax, sweet spices (on the finish/persistence) as well as with a very discreet hint of hazelnut.

JEFF LEVE, THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER

James Suckling

The blackcurrant and blueberry aromas are lifted and beautiful. Lots of flowers, too, together with some mushroom and dried-flower undertones. Full-bodied with firm and very silky tannins giving a lovely texture. Bright acidity lifts the finish and gives it drive and force. Better after 2025.

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2016 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot that was picked between 29 September and 19 October at 35 hectoliters per hectare. It is being matured in 60% new oak for a total of 18 months.