Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte - Pessac-Leognan 2010

The style of our red wine is very classic, with a neat expression of our terrior of Gnzian Gravels, which gives the wine some unique smoky notes. We look for elegance and structure, freshness and complexity, balance and richness. The majority of Cabernet Sauvignon grown in our vineyard, harvested at full maturity and vinified in the softest way to only extract the silkiest tannins, unveils after a few years all its potential, which we can then enjoy during long years. The other varietals grown on the estate add to the Cabernet Sauvignon their own flavors and take part to the typical harmony of our Cru Classe de Graves.

This is an extraordinary performance once again from the Cathiard family, the proprietors of Smith-Haut-Lafitte. They think the 2010 is even better than the 2009. (I disagree, but only slightly.) This wine has laser-like definition in its an remarkable nose of a subtle charcoal fire interwoven with spring flowers, creme de cassis, blueberry liqueur and spicy wood. Full-bodied, stunningly concentrated, long, rich and moderately tannic, this wine is set for an exceptionally long life of 30-40 years but can be drunk in 5-7.

Gorgeous, with alluring black tea and warm ganache notes that unfurl slowly, while the core of intense steeped plum, anise, blackberry compote and black currant confiture sits patiently in reserve. The beautiful loam-, tobacco- and tar-filled finish displays major heft, but also remarkable polish and grace. Should age very slowly. Best from 2018 through 2035.

A beautifully ripe wine with great black fruits that burst through the classic tannins. In its richness and in its structure, it combines the best of the vintage. Dark, complex, fruity and very rich, a magnificent wine for long-term aging.