2019 Smith Haut Lafitte

A softer structure and texture than the 2018 - precise, skilful. At this point the team at Smith Haut Lafitte barely put a foot wrong, meaning the character of the vintage might be different, but not the quality that you find in the glass, nor the confidence that you can have in opening and sharing it with friends. The same signature are here - graphite, crayon, slate-textured tannins, Cabernet Sauvignon character and signature, and a ton of joy alongside.

The 2019 Smith Haut Lafitte is one of the Cathiards’ greatest triumphs in recent years. It is noticeably deep in colour. The aromatics burst from the glass—blackberry and flecks of blueberry, a veil of dark chocolate that emerges with time. It shows much less red fruit than a bottle in 2023 exhibited, instead more similar to a bottle I encountered in 2021. This is still on the oaky side, telegraphing that it’s in for the long haul. The palate is structured and exerts insistent grip, though simultaneously feels precise and focused as it reveals layers of black fruit tinged with black olive and rosemary. Again, the 2019 is certainly on the youthful side, bright and quite grippy. I would cellar bottles another four to five years to appreciate what will be a Smith Haut Lafitte in full flight. Outstanding.

59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot. Dark purplish crimson. Fragrant with small, wild blackberries. So scented. Super-dry and very fine tannins. Still very tight on the palate, barely open but elegant. Deliciously dry. (JH)