2021 Petit Smith-Haut-Lafitte Rouge (Pessac)

The 2021 Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte is raised in 30% new oak. Fuller on the nose compared to the Les Hauts de Smith, it displays lovely blackberry, seawater and subtle tobacco aromas. The fresh palate is medium-bodied with firm grip, slightly chalky-textured tannins and a minerally finish of moderate length. There is something almost Loire-like about this wine, even though it contains no Cabernet Franc. Very saline. 90-92 points

Aromas of cassis, plums, pipe tobacco and loamy soil introduce the 2021 Le Petit Haut Lafitte, a medium-bodied, lively and elegant wine that`s refined and charming. As usual, it`s a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, and it`s the more serious of Smith Haut Lafitte`s two second wines. 89-91 points

Cabernet Sauvignon takes the leading role in the 2021 Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte. This super-classic Graves is not especially forthcoming today, but that should not be an issue in time. Graphite, dried herbs, spice and menthol open with a bit of coaxing, with pretty floral top notes that appear with some aeration. A long, persistent finish rounds things out in style. 91-93 points

You`ll find a greater difference in quality than in a typical vintage between this and Hauts de Smith, with greater clarity of expression and rich aromatics here. Blueberry, raspberry leaf, lemongrass and campfire smoke, with salted cracker salinity on the finish. This is where you fid the sweet stuff in 2021 - not by looking for ripe fruit but by going long on juicy, elegant, well balanced savoury fruit that has plenty of character. A great 2nd wine that is worth seeking out. 30% new oak. 92 points