Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte   Smith Haut Lafitte

2015 Smith-Haut-Lafitte

By Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte

2015 Smith-Haut-Lafitte from Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux

In the constellation of Bordeaux's wine pantheon, certain stars burn with a consistent brilliance, their lustre undimmed year upon year. Among these luminaries sits the 2015 Smith-Haut-Lafitte from Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte. Much like a seasoned actor capturing the spotlight with an enthralling performance, this vintage has deftly encapsulated the stage of Pessac-Leognan with its magnetic presence.

 

Evoking the Essence of Place and Time

The 2015 vintage of Bordeaux was one graced by favourable climatic conditions that parlayed into wines of stupendous balance and depth. Herein lies a narrative framed by nature's benevolence; the season unfurled with warm June flowerings, proceeded by a serenely dry summer and punctuated by timely September rains—elements that conspired to create an impeccable chorus of ripeness and tannic precision in the eventual harvest.

In this context, the 2015 Smith-Haut-Lafitte stands as a testament to the harmonious interplay between man, vine, and environment. Revealing a tapestry of blackcurrants and plums, supported by an exquisitely tailored structure characterized by refined tannins and an enthralling finish that resonates with whispers of clove and truffle—it is expressive yet focused, potent yet poised.

 

An Investment in Terroir and Timelessness

Investors who appreciate the symbiotic relationship between terroir expression and investment potential will find the 2015 Smith-Haut-Lafitte a compelling addition to their portfolios. This is not merely wine; it is liquid history crafted through the prudent stewardship of Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte—a proud standard-bearer for its appellation.

The Pessac-Leognan region, with its gravelly soils and forested proximity, imparts a distinctive gravitas to its vintages. The intermingling of varietals in this blend underlines a portrait of elegance entwined with robust vitality—the essence of 2015 magnificently captured within the vessel.

This offering suggests more than mere gustatory delight for hedonists; it is an opportunity for connoisseurs and investors alike to secure a slice of Bordeaux’s viticultural majesty. Those seeking to diversify their fine wine portfolios would do well to consider the acquisition of such a singular expression from an illustrious year, one whose narrative is etched into every nuanced sip.

Conclusion

Encapsulating extraordinary weather patterns and superior winemaking expertise, the 2015 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is a symphony of exceptional provenance and promise for those attuned to fine wine investment. It typifies Pessac-Leognan's stature in a bottle, inviting a journey through the senses while promising a future bright with appreciation, both palatal and financial. A wine not just for this moment but continuing gracefully into perpetuity—an epoch distilled into one definitive masterpiece.

Current market price

£950.00

12x75cl

Highest score

98

POP score

52.78

Scores and tasting notes

97-98

This is a very polished and precise young wine with beautiful depth and intensity. Full and sexy. It shows blueberry and black currant character with walnut and chocolate undertones. The tannins have a lovely texture. Joy to taste.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com

94-97

Ripe and succulent in feel, with warm plum and blackberry confiture notes leading the way. Picks up singed alder and tar details through the finish, gaining extra depth. Very pure, but with ample grip in reserve. A serious wine.—J.M.

Wine Spectator - James Molesworth - winespectator.com

96

Right up there with the best Left Bank reds in 2015, this is the latest in a line of impressive releases from Smith-Haut-Lafitte. Grassy, aromatic and herbal, with blueberry and blackcurrant sweetness, tangy acidity and a core of serious, well integrated tannin embellished by stylish, perfumed oak. Drink: 2025-35

Tim Atkin - timatkin.com

95-97

The 2015 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is adorned with a special label to celebrate the 650th anniversary of the château and the 25th vintage made under the ownership of Daniel and Florence Cathiard. It is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, picked between 23 September until 12 October with the Cabernet Franc. Matured in 65% new oak (although technical director Fabien Teitgen mentioned that he could have added more if he felt it would benefit), it has a very intense, blueberry and crème de cassis scented bouquet, a touch more opulent than its peers with hints of freshly shucked oyster shell developing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with filigree tannin couched in gorgeous, satin-textured black cherry and cassis fruit, tinged with cedar and pencil shavings. It lingers very long and sensually in the mouth, completing a sophisticated and powerful Smith Haut-Lafitte that should age in splendid fashion.

Neal Martin - eRobertParker.com, #224, April 2016

18

New black label to celebrate the Cathiards' anniversary and that of the property. Very dark. Comfortable base and lots of perfume. Round and sweet. Tense and tight. An excitingly taut package that promises well.

Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com

Vintage performance