2018 Les Hauts de Smith Blanc
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Les Hauts de Smith is earthier on the nose compared to the Le Petit Haut Lafitte, and more mineral-driven, with subtle minty aromas infusing the citrus peel and desiccated orange scents. The beautifully balanced palate features seamlessly integrated oak, flecks of walnut and smoke-tinged citrus fruit. A spicy, peppery finish leaves the mouth tingling afterward. Superb.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Les Hauts De Smith Blanc (100% Sauvignon) is a beautiful effort and well worth seeking out if you're a Bordeaux Blanc lover. Light gold-hued, with a terrific nose of lemon curd, white flowers, toasted bread, and honeysuckle, this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a rounded, elegant texture, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish. It's the finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted.
The 2018 Les Hauts de Smith Blanc, 100% Sauvignon Blanc, is soft, open-knit and creamy. Lemon confit, orchard fruit and sweet floral notes meld together. In this vintage, the Hauts has an extra kick of textural richness that gives the wine its radiant, inviting feel. The 2018 finishes with striking depth and density. It is a beautiful, sensual, creamy white to drink over the next handful of years.
About the producer
Ch. Smith Haut Lafitte is one of the leading lights of Pessac-Léognan today – all thanks to Daniel and Florence Cathiard, who took over the property in 1990 and have since transformed the estate, converting to biodynamics and crafting wines of increasing finesse.