As early as 1365, grapes have been grown on the property now known as Smith-Haut-Lafitte. Originally owned by the noble Bosq family, the estate was purchased in the 18th century by Scotsman George Smith. Its present name was taken from Smith and the Pessac region’s gravel plateau known as Lafitte.

In 1842, Mr. Duffour-Dubergier, mayor of Bordeaux and an enthusiastic winegrower, inherited Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte from his mother and brought the wine up to great growth status. The property changed hands again in 1958 when it was purchased by the Louis Eschenauer Company. After the Eschenaueur period came to an end, a great deal of money has been invested in the estate, particularly on the construction of a superb underground cellar holding over 1,000 barrels.

In 1990, Daniel Cathiard fell in love with the property and joined the list of prestigious owners, firmly intending to further enhance Smith-Haut-Lafitte's tradition of excellence. He combined the most modern winemaking techniques with age-old artisanal methods, including organic compost, small wooden vats, and lees-aging. Famous around the world for its wonderfully elegant red wine and the sophisticated bouquet of its white wine, Smith-Haut-Lafitte undoubtedly deserves the special care that is lavished on it.

The style of Smith-Haut-Lafitte red is classical, with a beautiful expression of Gunzian gravel terroir which gives it unique smoky notes. Elegant and structured, the red shows freshness, complexity, balance and richness.

The Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, harvested at full maturity and softly vinified to extract only the silkiest tannins, unveils its full potential after proper aging. The other grape varieties of the vineyard, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, add their own aromas and participate in the harmony of a great Cru Classe de Graves.

The 2016 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is a Bordeaux Blend wine that hails from the esteemed Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine is a true gem, exuding elegance, depth, and complexity. With its deep garnet-purple color, it immediately catches the eye and promises a vibrant tasting experience.

On the nose, the 2016 Smith-Haut-Lafitte reveals a symphony of aromas that captivate the senses. Warm black cherries, blackberry pie, and star anise dance together, while fragrant lilacs and hints of chocolate box add a touch of luxury. As the wine opens up, notes of truffles, crushed rocks, and cigar box emerge, creating a multi-dimensional bouquet that is both enticing and intriguing.

Upon first sip, the wine envelops the palate with its richness and seductive nature. Medium to full-bodied, it showcases perfumed blackberry preserves and plush, velvety tannins that provide a luxurious mouthfeel. The wine maintains impeccable balance and harmony, a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship behind its creation.

Renowned wine critics have praised the 2016 Smith-Haut-Lafitte, with Vinous awarding it a remarkable score of 98. Their tasting note highlights the wine's extraordinary balance, energy, and tension, which set it apart from other vintages. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also bestowed a score of 98, praising its complexity, layering, and epic finish.

Wine Spectator awarded this wine a score of 97, noting its ripe and lush waves of cassis, cherry preserve, and raspberry puree flavors. They also mentioned the wine's latent grip and intense finish, which promises a long and rewarding aging potential. James Suckling echoed these sentiments with a score of 97, praising the wine's lifted aromas of blackcurrant and blueberry, along with its firm and silky tannins.

The 2016 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is a wine that demands patience and will reward those who cellar it for years to come. Wine Enthusiast suggests waiting until at least 2025 before indulging in its juicy, succulent, and smoky Cabernet Sauvignon flavors. Decanter concurs, stating that this wine rivals the top names in its appellation and boasts a very long aging potential.

Overall, the 2016 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is a wine of exceptional quality and finesse. It showcases the dedication and passion of its producers, Florence and Daniel Cathiard, and their team. With its extraordinary balance, complexity, and aging potential, this wine is a true testament to the artistry of Bordeaux winemaking.