2016 Smith Haut Lafitte, Pessac-Léognan

The 2016 Château Smith Haut Lafitte is amongst the most compelling wines from the vintage. A clear standout, this sensational blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot is already remarkably expressive. The Smith Haut Lafitte is offering striking aromas of ripe blackberries, dark currants, roasted coffee, loamy soil, sweet Asian spices and spring flowers which are all coming together and bursting from the glass. On the palate this possesses gorgeous richness and depth with wonderful opulence. Layers of complex flavors of ripe dark fruit combine with savory and earthy characteristics which continue to build up to the long, supple finish. Displaying remarkable purity and outstanding overall balance this Bordeaux simply has it all. While it is one of the most attractive young wines from the vintage, it also clearly has the potential age beautifully for quite some time. (JD)

Structured, deep ruby in colour, spiced rosemary and violet notes on the aromatics, this is just at the beginning of opening up, still very much in its primary phase, a little subdued even at 10 years old, but the structure and carved tannins are in evidence, and holding everything together. Cassis, bilberry, cigar box, espresso, love the lift and nuance, with rose bud and fennel. A great wine, waiting to exhale. Just tasted at the 10 years on also. 80% new oak.