Discover the 2020 Château Smith Haut Lafitte - Grand Cru Classé - 750 mL at Cellar Link Auctions
- Vert de vin 100 points
- James Suckling 99-100 points
Region: Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux
Bottle Size: 750 mL
Classification: Grand Cru Classé
Alcohol: 14%
Blend: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Introduction:
Dive into the depth and complexity of Bordeaux with the 2020 Château Smith Haut Lafitte. This Grand Cru Classé is celebrated for its powerful expression and refined balance, encapsulating the best of Pessac-Léognan. With a dark, almost black color and bluish hues, this wine captures the essence of its prestigious terroir.
Vinification and Terroir:
The grapes, harvested from 48-year-old vines yielding 30 hl/ha, undergo fermentation in small wooden vats at 28°C, emphasizing gentle extraction and enhancing the wine's structural finesse. Aged for 18 months in 60% new barrels crafted in the estate's cooperage, the wine matures on lees, which enriches its complexity and texture.
Tasting Notes:
The 2020 vintage offers a vibrant nose of red and black fruits, with layers of star anise, licorice, and flinty notes reflecting the günzien gravels of its vineyard. On the palate, it starts wide and powerful, then transitions into a well-defined structure that is both fresh and full-bodied. The finish is marked by great tannic structure and aromatic persistence, featuring notes of blond tobacco leaf, licorice, and graphite pencil.
Expert Reviews:
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Wine Advocate (Lisa Perrotti-Brown): 98-100 points - "An impactful entrance with notes of blackcurrant pastilles, chocolate-covered cherries, and molten licorice, finishing with epically long-lasting earthy and savory layers."
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James Suckling: 99-100 points - "A dense purple hue with incredible aromatics of blackberries, blueberries, and wood smoke. One of the most concentrated and opulent wines of the vintage."
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Jeb Dunnuck: 97-100 points - "Pure gold, reminiscent of the top vintages. A massive yet extraordinarily opulent wine, brimming with fruit and a sensual texture."
Cellaring Potential:
This wine is already expressing its richness and complexity, yet it is destined to evolve and gain further nuances over the next 40 to 50 years in your cellar.
Pairing Suggestions:
Perfect with high-end cuisine such as roasted game, truffled dishes, or a selection of artisan cheeses. Its robust profile also pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, making for a decadent finish to any meal.
Why Choose Cellar Link Auctions:
Cellar Link Auctions guarantees the authenticity and optimal storage of the 2020 Château Smith Haut Lafitte, ensuring that each bottle arrives in perfect condition, whether for immediate enjoyment or long-term aging.
Embrace the Elegance of Bordeaux Grand Cru:
With its powerful flavors and exquisite balance, the 2020 Château Smith Haut Lafitte is a standout representation of Bordeaux's winemaking artistry. Available exclusively through Cellar Link Auctions, this wine promises to be a stellar addition to any collector's cellar. Secure your bottles today and experience the legacy of one of Bordeaux's finest estates.
