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Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge 2013

Pessac-Leognan, Grand Cru Classé

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Tasting Notes

The 2013 Smith-Haut-Lafitte has a composed and quite refined bouquet, certainly one of the best that I have encountered on the Left Bank, with wild strawberry mixed with cedar and a touch of graphite. The palate is smooth on the entry, the oak nicely integrated, almost Pinot-like in texture with a prickle of spice on the finish. Recommended for the vintage, this constitutes a very respectable Pessac-Léognan from the Cathiard family in what was a difficult vintage.

Score: 90

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2018-2032 28 October 2016

The 2013 Smith Haut Lafitte is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It is bestowed with a fragrant bouquet, floral and quasi-Margaux in style, with a hint of seaweed developing with time. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and lifted acidity. It feels a little pinched towards the finish at the moment, although that will soften by the time of bottling. This is a more classic Smith Haut Lafitte, but there is nothing wrong with that. Tasted April 2014.

Score: 90 - 92

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 01 April 2014

Deep colour, slightly smoky cassis nose, nice density of fruit but 2013 greenness is there.

Score: 90

Decanter, Decanter.com Maturity: 2018-2028 01 April 2014

Fresh, pure and precise on the nose with very high-toned fruit. Medium-bodied with satiny texture, a little glycerol and woodspice on the finish. Refreshing and very stylish.

Score: 91 - 93

Albany Vintners, - 01 April 2014

This is very, very fresh with a bright berry and currant character. Medium to full body, with fine tannins. Very pretty finish. Subtle and delicate. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, and a touch of cabernet franc and petit verdot.

Score: 91 - 92

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 01 April 2014

Open and fresh, with a caressing edge to the plum, raspberry and lilac notes, lined with a subtle twinge of singed vanilla on the finish. Restrained for now, but shows lovely length.

Score: 89 - 92

James Molesworth, Wine Spectator 01 April 2014

Redcurrant fruit, milk chocolate, light body and pretty aggressive tannins. Stubborn and hard on the palate.

Score: 15

Jancis Robinson MW, Richard Hemming, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2018-2023 01 April 2014