Château Smith Haut Lafitte - Pessac-Léognan - Rouge - 2023

Can we seriously do without Smith Haut Lafitte? If you're a wine-lover worthy of the name, the answer is no, of course.

Quite simply because this cru enjoys a special kind of love. With its pioneering viticulture, described by owners Daniel and Florence Cathiard as "bio-precision", the 78-hectare estate produces reds of great intensity, always racy and full-bodied, which age gracefully.

This 2023 vintage is an insolent demonstration of their talent, developing a great deal of finesse and agility, as well as frankness and naturalness, without anything peremptory. A very fine version of the vintage, with a loose elegance that suits it perfectly and recalls the great success of the 2019, albeit with a less sunny character.

The Cabernet Sauvignon (70%, a record) is at its best, flowing into an unctuous frame perfectly supported by a tailor-made ageing process - 60% in new barrels, made on site in the château's cooperage - and the wine unfurls an innate freshness and harmony, with a lovely minty aftertaste on the finish. A deep, sheathed, perfectly sculpted wine that testifies to the Cathiard family's unwavering commitment to quality.

Rated 94-96/100 by Parker and RVF. A feat that will not go unnoticed!