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.

Introducing the exceptional 2018 Smith-Haut-Lafitte Bordeaux Blend, a red wine from the renowned Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This wine embodies elegance, sophistication, and a remarkable depth of flavors that will captivate even the most discerning palates.

The wine pours into the glass with a deep, almost inky color, captivating the eye with its intensity. On the nose, it immediately impresses with its purity of fruit, revealing enticing aromas of ripe plum and cherry, accompanied by delicate notes of wet earth and spice. Light stone nuances add a touch of complexity, while floral undertones provide a vibrant and vivid character.

As the wine caresses the palate, layers of ripe tannins unfold, showcasing a perfect balance and polish. The mouthfeel is full-bodied and luxurious, delivering a savory finish that lingers on the palate for minutes. This wine is a testament to the winemaker's artistry, displaying an incredibly refined and polished profile that is truly remarkable.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this vintage an outstanding score of 98 points, praising its refinement and predicting that it will reach its peak after 2024. Wine Enthusiast also recognized its excellence, granting it a score of 96 points and highlighting its rich licorice and blackberry flavors, freshness, and poise. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine an impressive 97+ points, commending its flamboyant fruit, beautifully styled frame of finely grained tannins, and bold freshness.

The 2018 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, aged in 60% new barriques. Lisa Perrotti-Brown from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate describes it as a "stunning, singular style that is sure to turn heads."

With its impeccable structure, power, and long-term aging potential, this wine is destined for greatness. It is recommended to cellar this gem until at least 2026 to fully appreciate its evolution. The wine is organic and biodynamic, reflecting the winery's commitment to sustainable practices.

In conclusion, the 2018 Smith-Haut-Lafitte Bordeaux Blend is a true masterpiece that showcases the finesse and complexity of Pessac Leognan wines. It is a wine that will leave a lasting impression, both in the glass and in the memory of those fortunate enough to savor it.