Popis
James Suckling Rating & Quote: 98-99/100
"Probably one of the most structured and stony SHLs I have ever had. Full yet very tight and compact palate with tannins that are like a tightly wound ball of silk. It goes on for a very long time. The cab berries were very small and they delivered a fantastic backbone of tannins, but at the same time intensity of vivid and reserved fruit. This is really long and classic in structure. The elevage in barrel will polish the fantastic, pure tannins. 70% cabernet sauvignon, 23% merlot, 6% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot. From biodynamically grown grapes."
The 2023 vintage at Smith Haut Lafitte is a celebration of concentration and complexity. With an extraordinarily low yield (only 26 hl/ha), a wine of unprecedented density was created that nevertheless retains its renowned freshness. The dominant Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) gives the wine a solid structure, while Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and a touch of Petit Verdot complete the mosaic of flavors.
Aroma: Highly expressive and layered. Dominated by black currants, Morello cherries, and blueberries. After a moment, a spicy dimension opens up with notes of cloves and licorice, transitioning into typical smoky notes of graphite, eucalyptus, and cedarwood.
Palate: The attack on the palate is direct and dense. The wine is full-bodied and velvety in texture with precisely crafted, ripe tannins.
Finish: A long, aristocratic finish that blends fruitiness with noble tobacco and a mineral trace of pencil lead.
Interesting Fact: Each bottle is protected by the Prooftag system, guaranteeing the authenticity of this collector's gem. The wine aged for 18 months in barrels (60% new), destined for decades of aging in a cellar.