A herbal, blackcurrant scented nose. Lively and tangy, this has bite and grip, a little more closed and tight compared to Les Hauts which is more expressive and charming but this has great precision to the dark fruit and fine tannins. Almost creamy texture but with tension and grip from the flint and wet stone edges. A serious take, but works so well, really in keeping with the vintage, nothing over the top. Juicy and mouthwatering with crunchy black fruit, balanced acidity, fine tannins and a chalky, salty, gravel-like finish. I like this a lot, it's calm and controlled but with an underlying confidence. Great potential. Dense and more tannic for sure. Needs time to open and relax.

More Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated, the 2021 Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte is a 60/40 split of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and it's another medium-bodied, pretty, elegant, impressive wine from this team. Cassis, redcurrants, tobacco leaf, and a hint of leather all shine here, and it's focused and nicely structured on the palate, with fine tannins and a great finish. Where the Les Hauts de Smith is up-front and ready to go, this is going to benefit from at least 2-3 years in the cellar.

This has very pretty cabernet aromas of blackcurrants and iodine with cloves, stone and just a hint of fresh herbs. Medium-bodied with a firmness and freshness on the palate, leading to a linear and racy finish with plenty of energy. Crunchy. 60% cabernet sauvignon and 40% merlot. From organically grown grapes.

The 2021 Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte is a seriously impressive wine. A burst of sweet dark fruit, kirsch, lavender, sweet spice and leather makes a strong first impression. Charming and engaging, the 2021 offers tons of Cabernet Sauvignon character and a kiss of new French oak that works so well here. Impeccable.