1995 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Cru Classe, Pessac-Leognan 1×1.5L

Robert Parker 91

Tasted at the chateau. A garnet/mahogany core with some degradation on the brick rim. A rather rustic, fleshy, savoury nose with dried herbs, a touch of cedar and tree bark. The palate is medium-bodied, slightly coarse tannins, good acidity, animally, a little herbaceous and smoky with a tarry, graphite, woody finish. A little anachronistic compared to the style today, but this is full of charm and joie-de-vivre. Drink with joy. Drink now-2015. Tasted September 2008. [Neal Martin, 01/09/2008]

Anticipated maturity: 2009-2015

Vinous 90

Very good deep red. Warm, inviting aromas of plums, hot bricks, leather and spice. Lush and expansive in the mouth, with smoke and plum flavors. Subtle flavor really expands on the finish. Tannins are quite suave. A lovely drink. [Stephen Tanzer, 05/01/1998]