2005 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Cru Classe, Pessac-Leognan 12x75cl

Vinous 94

The 2005 Smith Haut Lafitte packs a serious punch. A blast of wild cherry, smoke, leather, tobacco and mint hits the palate as this powerhouse Pessac-Léognan shows off its personality. Black cherry, mocha, rose petal, spice and chocolate all saturate the palate. This is an especially lush, potent wine shaped by density, concentration and plenty of oak. I would prefer to drink the 2005 sooner rather than later, as it is starting to fray just a bit. Tasted two times [Antonio Galloni, 15/04/2021]

Anticipated maturity: 2021-2033

Robert Parker 98

This sensational, opaque blue/purple-colored wine from Smith Haut Lafitte has a gorgeous floral nose with notes of graphite, blueberries, blackberries, and cassis that jump from the glass of this inky, very dense, yet strikingly pure wine. Light on its feet despite its stunning concentration and multi-layered mouthfeel, this wine has fabulous intensity, richness and length. Quite impressive, and still incredibly youthful, this is a superstar of the vintage, and capable of lasting another 25-30 years. [22/06/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2015-2045

JancisRobinson.com 16

Tasted blind. Lightly oxidised, with the fruit sucked out somewhat, but I could enjoy this with food. Rich, oily and iodine. Bit hot on the end. [23/02/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2009-2015