Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte (Futures Pre-sale) 2010

"A qualitative home run, right up there with the profound 2005 and more opulent 2009, Smith-Haut-Lafitte has turned in a remarkable performance in this vintage, but then again, so have many other chateaux. A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the wine has an inky/purple color and an extraordinary nose of graphite, blackberries, cassis, licorice, smoke, and camphor. The unbelievable skyscraper-like texture, stunning purity, and formidable intensity make for a remarkably rich, long, full-bodied wine that is classic Graves, but at the same time a staggering 2010. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035+.
Barrel Sample: 95-97 Points "

97 Points

The Wine Advocate

"Really ripe, but with great focus, as linzer torte, blackberry, plum sauce and anise notes are woven tightly together, all carried by tar and graphite, with a long, seamless finish.
Barrel Sample: 93-96 Points "

96 Points

Wine Spectator

"Wonderful aromas of currants, berries and minerals. Very stoney. Full bodied, with an intense and dense palate structure. Loads of blackberries, sweet tobacco and hot stones. Long finish. We will see if it’s better than the 2009 or not.
Barrel Sample: 95-96 Points "

96 Points

James Suckling

"Spice, smoky fruit, with great acidity, this wine offers richness, structure, powerful tannins and already some delicious blackberry fruits.
Barrel Sample: 92-94 Points "

94 Points

Wine Enthusiast