Smith-Haut-Lafitte Pessac-Léognan 2010

98+ points Robert Parker: "This is an extraordinary performance once again from the Cathiard family, the proprietors of Smith-Haut-Lafitte. They think the 2010 is even better than the 2009. (I disagree, but only slightly.) This wine has laser-like definition in its an remarkable nose of a subtle charcoal fire interwoven with spring flowers, creme de cassis, blueberry liqueur and spicy wood. Full-bodied, stunningly concentrated, long, rich and moderately tannic, this wine is set for an exceptionally long life of 30-40 years but can be drunk in 5-7. (Feb 2013)"

98 points Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Wine Advocate): "Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Smith Haut Lafitte delivers notes of baked plums, boysenberries and dried mulberries with an undercurrent of cigar box, new leather and bouquet garni. Full-bodied, the palate has firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness supporting the maturing fruit, finishing on a stewed tea note. Drink: 2020-2045. (Mar 2020)"

97 points Jane Anson (Decanter): "The 2010 vintage at Smith Haut Lafitte was one of the wines that woke me up to what was happening at this estate, and it is absolutely delivering today. Very much coffee beans and black chocolate; it is on the gourmet side but with layers and freshness by the bucketload. Accomplished, confident winemaking and a showcase in winemaking precision. Great stuff, cassis, blueberry; blackberry, juicy and vibrant. Drinking Window: 2020-2048. (Jan 2020)"

96 points Wine Spectator: "Gorgeous, with alluring black tea and warm ganache notes that unfurl slowly, while the core of intense steeped plum, anise, blackberry compote and black currant confiture sits patiently in reserve. The beautiful loam-, tobacco- and tar-filled finish displays major heft, but also remarkable polish and grace. Should age very slowly. Best from 2018 through 2035. (3/31/13)"

96 points Chris Kissack (Winedoctor): "A really interesting nose to this wine, dark and confident, with lightly grilled blackcurrant fruits. The palate is rather firm, quite upright, showing a lovely midpalate texture in keeping with the character of the vintage, the blanket of fruit rising up with the tannins and acid fresh frame underneath. A very firm style, showing a little reserved, backward austerity in the structure, but nothing of the sort in the fruit and texture, which is polished, elegant and correct. The middle of the wine is fresh and full of dried blackcurrants, currants and black pepper confidence. It finished with some dry but firm, fine-grained and substantial tannins, and it shows off with a considerable length. An impressive showing from a great vintage. (Apr 2016)"

96 points and 'Cellar Selection,' Wine Enthusiast: "A beautifully ripe wine with great black fruits that burst through the classic tannins. In its richness and in its structure, it combines the best of the vintage. Dark, complex, fruity and very rich, a magnificent wine for long-term aging. (May 2013)"

95 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The 2010 Smith Haut-Lafitte has one of the most backward bouquets among its peers and required more coaxing from the glass. It eventually offers well defined blackberry, wild strawberry, sous-bois and tobacco notes, quite serious but very engaging. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins. There is good body and density here, but it loosens up towards the finish with a lovely touch of sea salt and liquorice on the aftertaste. Superb. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at the BI Wines & Spirits 10-Year On tasting. (Drink between 2026-2066. (Apr 2020)"

95 points James Suckling: "Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and plums follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Lots of mushroom and fruit undertones. Very polished. Such finesse yet structure to this young wine. Better in 2007. (11/14/13)"