The 2009 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is a Bordeaux blend from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France, known for its remarkable concentration and depth. This red wine, described by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate as "the finest wine ever made by proprietors Daniel and Florence Cathiard," earned a perfect score of 100 from Parker. The review highlights the wine's "opaque blue/purple color" and a "glorious nose" featuring acacia flowers, licorice, and black raspberries, among others. Parker praises the wine's rich texture and predicts it will age effortlessly for 30-40 years.
James Suckling awarded this wine a score of 96, noting its "aromas of flowers, dried citrus fruit, and blueberries," complemented by "firm and silky tannins" and a "long, long finish." He labels it the "best red ever from Smith," suggesting it will reach its peak in 2018. Similarly, Wine Spectator also rated it 96, describing it as "loaded with crushed plum, blueberry, cassis, fig, and blackberry paste flavors," and appreciated its polished and pure character.
Jane Anson, scoring it at 97, emphasizes the wine's role in establishing Smith Haut Lafitte's dominance in the Pessac Léognan appellation. She notes the "bright and full of supple, rich berry fruits" with "cocoa bean, pencil lead and liquorice" showcasing its Cabernet dominance. Jeff Leve gives it a 98, commending its "truffle, smoke, fennel, black cherry, and cocoa" notes, suggesting further aging for optimal enjoyment.
Described as an "ultra-concentrated blockbuster wine" by Cory Gowan of JJ Buckley, this blend includes 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, aged in 60% new French oak. Wine Enthusiast, with a score of 94, highlights its "powerful tannins" and "blackberry jam flavor," underscoring its complexity and rich fruit layers.