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 2020 Smith-Haut-Lafitte Bordeaux Blend is a wine that exudes elegance and sophistication. With its deep red color and impeccable clarity, it is a visually stunning wine that immediately captivates the senses. Produced in the renowned Pessac Leognan region of Bordeaux, France, this wine is a true representation of the region's winemaking prowess.

On the nose, the wine offers a symphony of aromas that are both enticing and complex. Notes of blackcurrant, graphite, and iodine immediately take center stage, creating a captivating bouquet. As the wine opens up, additional aromas of black cherries, plums, cassis, and blueberries emerge, accompanied by balsamic touches and hints of white pepper. The combination of these aromas creates a mesmerizing olfactory experience that is both intriguing and alluring.

The palate of the 2020 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is equally impressive. It is rich, round, and grippy, with captivating flavors that envelope the taste buds. The wine exhibits a perfect balance between power and finesse, with velvety tannins that are polished yet powerful. The depth and complexity of this wine are simply remarkable, with toned muscles and a vertical structure that give it a sense of presence and grandeur.

The 2020 vintage of Smith-Haut-Lafitte is receiving high praise from wine critics and experts. Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine an exceptional score of 99-100 points, describing it as having incredible quality and depth. Decanter also recognized its excellence, giving it a score of 98 points and noting its captivating and seductive qualities. Other esteemed publications such as Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, Vinous, and Jane Anson have also praised this wine, highlighting its richness, concentration, and potential for long-term aging.

Crafted from organically grown grapes, the 2020 Smith-Haut-Lafitte is made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. This blend of varietals contributes to the wine's complexity and depth, showcasing the best characteristics of each grape.

With an alcohol content of 14.5%, this wine has a substantial body and a lingering finish that leaves a lasting impression. It is recommended to cellar this wine for a few years to allow it to fully express itself, but for those who can't wait, it already offers immense pleasure with its wealth of fruit.

In conclusion, the 2020 Smith-Haut-Lafitte Bordeaux Blend is a wine of exceptional quality and distinction. Its impeccable craftsmanship, complex aromas, and impressive structure make it a true masterpiece. Whether enjoyed now or aged for years to come, this wine promises to deliver an extraordinary tasting experience.