Andreas Larsson - Tasted

Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider

Wine Spectator

Robert Parker The Wine Advocate

A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, aged in 60% new barriques, the very deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Smith Haut Lafitte bursts onto the scene with showy scents of crème de cassis, mocha, licorice and cedar chest, followed by suggestions of baked plums, smoked meats, tar and tobacco leaf. The medium to full-bodied palate brings sophistication to all that flamboyant fruit with a beautifully styled frame of finely grained tannins and bold freshness, finishing bright and fruity with loads of minerally sparks. This is a stunning, singular style that is sure to turn heads!

VertdeVin

The nose is fruity, elegant and offers a certain complexity, freshness as well as power. It reveals notes of juicy/fresh nectarine, fresh lychee, small notes of small fresh white fruits associated with touches of zests, lemon flowers, very fine hints of racy minerality as well as an imperceptible varietal hint, very discreet hints of almond and fresh hazelnut (in the background). The palate is fresh, fruity, well-balanced and offers a juicy/acidulous frame, a beautiful juiciness, definition of the fruit as well as gourmandize, a small fat (finesse), suavity, appetence, a beautiful suavity, harmony, generosity, a certain richness and a good structure. On the palate this wine expresses notes of juicy quenette, juicy/ripe lemon, small notes of juicy/ripe kumquat associated with small touches of juicy mandarine, lemon as well as hints of papaya, lemon flowers, apple flowers, a racy minerality and a discree hint of exotic fruits (in the background). Good length. A very discreet tannic sensation on the finish/persistence.

Falstaff

Wine Enthusiast

Powerful and rich, this dense wine offers intense fruits and a texture that promises considerable aging potential. White-fruit flavors come through strongly, combining with spice, structure and concentration. The wine will age for many years. Drink from 2025. Organic and biodynamic.