Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte rouge 2024 en Primeur

Some notes of spice and cedar from oak. Ripe blue fruit extract with fine tannins and some graphite of Cabernet. This bodes incredibly well for the Grand Vin as it displays none of the 'stereotypes' of the vintage with very fine tannins, good acidity, silkiness and juicy freshness, but plenty of Cabernet cassis. Long finish. Should be approachable in relative youth, but also has the power to keep well. Great job.

Aromatic intensity in terms of blackcurrant leaf, raspberry and dried herbs. Softly chewy tannins open the expression with cooling blue fruit and some minty freshness. This is structured with a wide frame but super light tannins, they haven't pushed this at all. Definitely more focused on the fruit with soft hints of spice and herbs. What it does not have in density it makes up for in clarity and precision. More of an airy style but still with long length. Ageing 30% in new oak barrels. 3.7pH.

The more Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated release, the 2024 Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. It's deep purple-hued and offers classic cassis, graphite, sappy tobacco, and violet notes. On the palate, it's medium-bodied and has a focused, elegant mouthfeel, ripe yet present tannins, and nicely integrated acidity. It's more focused and structured than the Les Hauts de Smith.

Dark ruby garnet, opaque core, purple reflections, delicate edge brightening. Delicate blueberries and cassis, fine herbal savouriness, a hint of precious wood. Juicy, elegant, ripe cherry fruit, good freshness, vivid tannins, lingers, a savoury food companion.