Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte 2001

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "Kudos to the Cathiard family, who acquired this once under-performing estate in 1990. They have spared no expense or effort in producing wines (both red and white) that are among the finest in Bordeaux in virtually every vintage. The 2001 red may not have as much power as the 2000, but it is very close in quality. A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 13% Cabernet Franc, it was macerated for four weeks, enjoyed malolactic in barrel as well as stirring of the lees, and was bottled with minimal clarification. This elegant, stylish, deep ruby/purple-colored effort reveals notes of smoke, graphite, and red as well as black fruits in its perfumed, nicely evolved bouquet. With sweet flavors, medium body, outstanding concentration, and impressive purity, this finely-etched Pessac-Leognan should hit its peak in 4-5 years, and drink well over the following 12-14+."

JANCIS ROBINSON: "Magnum bought at the château by Tony Stebbings that is in absolutely great nick. Minerally rich with a dry finish. Transparent and sweet, its only flaw is a slightly sudden finish. And it may not have the stuffing for the very long haul."

THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "Open, accessible and already delivering its ample charms, lots of smoke, tobacco, coffee, blackberry, earth, vanilla and black raspberry flavors mesh perfectly with the wine's soft, supple textures. This blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and 13% Cabernet Franc should age and improve for at least another 10-15 years."

WINE SPECTATOR: "This is quite alive, with a very fresh, almost brisk edge to the mix of red currant, damson plum and raspberry fruit. Lovely tobacco, bay leaf and iron notes drive the finish, stretching this out. Shows a flash of peppery game at the very end.—Blind '01/'03/'05 Bordeaux retrospective (December 2017). Drink now through 2025. 10,000 cases made. — JM"