There are very few dry white Bordeaux that deliver stunning quality. With the exception of the stable of wines from Château Haut-Brion, there are only a very few names that regularly appear at the upper end of the scoresheet. One that is almost always present is, however, the white from Château Smith Haut Lafitte. I am almost always stunned by how exceptional this wine is, in contrast to a great sea of innocuous whites that are produced in Pessac-Leognan. Here, we offer the 2017 Château Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc at £495 per 6 bottle case in bond.
Now consider this wine in a vintage that has delivered dry whites of great quality, you have a very compelling wine to offer. Fabien Teitgen and his team have fashioned another great vintage in 2017. This simply bursts with mouthwatering, scintillating citrus fruits; grilled grapefruit and limey citrus notes all backed by mineral drive. Long, pure and focused, this is a great white without a doubt. Almost irresistible in its youth, this vintage should also evolve gracefully over 15 years or more.
2017 Château Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc
£495 per 6 bottle case in bond
(92-94) Neal Martin, vinous.com
The 2017 Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc was deprived of a hectare parcel of 80-year old Sauvignon that was pulled up last year. It has a focused bouquet with mineral-driven citrus fruit, yellow plum and honeysuckle, the 50% new oak nicely integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with taut citrus fruit laced with pineapple and tangerine. There is a subtle tropical undercurrent to this Smith Haut-Lafite Blanc. It fans out generously towards the finish with a long and satisfying, lightly honeyed finish. This is a very fine white Smith Haut-Lafitte, already surfeit with pedigree that should age with style and panache. Drink 2021 to 2035
(93-96) Antonio Galloni, vinous.com
The 2017 Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc is magnificent. In the glass, the 2017 reminds me of the superb 2013, but with less austerity and more depth. Jasmine, lemon confit, white flowers and mint are finely cut. Above all else, the 2017 Blanc is a wine of energy and pure pedigree. I loved it. The blend is 90% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Gris.
Please let us know of your interest.