2018 Château Smith Haut Lafitte “Le Petit Haut Lafitte”

Description

93   Decanter
“Beautiful depth, density and complexity, and a lovely spice, along with softer touches of floral aromatics. Successfully holds juice and tension through the palate. A clear feeling of family relation to its bigger sibling, Smith Haut Lafitte.” (11/2020)

93   Antonio Galloni for Vinous
“Cabernet Sauvignon takes center stage in the 2018 Le Petit Haut Lafitte. A powerful, deep wine, the 2018 possesses terrific energy as well as a good deal of Cabernet savoriness. I would prefer to cellar it for at least a few years as it is tightly wound today. Black cherry, blackberry jam, cloves, licorice and chocolate give this imposing red a real feeling of somber intensity.” (3/2021)

93   Jane Anson
“Cigar box, cedar, tobacco leaf, flowers, blackberry, currants, licorice, vanilla and dark cherry aromatics create the nose. On the palate, the wine is round,, soft, polished and fresh with good sweetness to the fruits, concentration and a finish loaded with cocoa, cherries, licorice, spice and espresso. This is a top vintage for Le Petit Haut Lafitte that will drink well for at least 12 years or more. The wine is made from a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot.” (3/2021)

92   James Suckling
“Aromas of blackberries, blueberries and fresh herbs follow through to a full body with lots of ripe fruit and a long, flavorful finish. A little warm and slightly bitter at the end. But it shows structure and intensity. Mostly cabernet sauvignon. Try after 2024.” (1/2021)