98 Vinous, 98 Wine Advocate, 97 Jeb Dunnuck

"The 2016 Smith Haut Lafitte is flat out stunning. Rich, ample and explosive, the 2016 possesses tremendous energy and tension to play off the wine's dark, rich fruit. I am not sure I have ever tasted a young Smith Haut Lafitte with such extraordinary balanc 2016, the Grand Vin is tense and pulsing with energy. Hints of lavender, spice, menthol and crème de cassis open up in the glass, but the 2016 stands out for its feel and exceptional harmony. The combined effects of picking a bit early, vinifiying more gentl reducing the impact of oak are having a profound effect at Smith Haut Lafitte. Thinking of some of the highly regarded wines of the last decade here, the 2009 and 2010 in particular, well, the 2016 is on another level. This is magnificent showing from proprietors Florence and Daniel Cathiard, and their team led by Technical Director Fabien Teitgen." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous, (01/21/2019), Ratings: 98

"Composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot and matured in 60% new oak for 18 months, the 2016 Smith Haut Lafitte has a very deep garnet-purple color, opening with sensuous scents of warm black cherries, blackberry pie, star anise and fragrant lilacs with hints of chocolate box, cigar box and pencil lead plus wafts of truffles and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, rich and seductive, it completely fills the palate with perfumed black berry preserves and superbly plush tannins, finishing epically long and beautifully layered." - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate, (11/30/2018), Ratings: 98

"White flowers, crushed rocks, oyster shell, and racy grapefruit and citrus notes all emerge from the 2016 Les Hauts de Smith Blanc, which is based all on Sauvignon. It’s concentrated, with bright acidity and a clean, crisp finish as well as medium-bodied richness and depth. It’s a beautiful, classic Graves Blanc to drink over the coming decade or more." - Jeb Dunnuck, (03/01/2019), Ratings: 97