94-96 NM
2022 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, Blanc, Pessac-Leognan 6x75cl
"The 2022 Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc is matured in 50% new oak for a planned 12 months, removed from barrel after 9 months with three months in vat after blending. It has a very perfumed nose with... yellow plums, jasmine, walnut and touches of fennel. The palate is medium-bodied with fine depth and acidity. Waxy in texture, with hazelnut and white pepper toward the saline, almost creamy finish."
94-96 Neal Martin, vinous.com, May 2023
£720 / Case£120 / BottleDuty Status: In BondAvailability: Immediate
2023 Chateau Pichon Baron 2eme Cru Classe, Pauillac 6x75cl
“Perfumed nose, fragrant and so scented, a touch of blackcurrant leaf, plum, graphite and dark chocolate. Silky soft, bright and so delicately presented. Crunchy and crisp red fruits and ripe black... fruits with some spiced undercurrents and wet stone touches. Much lighter in terms of fruit profile than some - summer berries, tangy and vibrant with super fine tannins giving the structure and support. This has finesse and power - less plushness and richness than last year of course - it’s more sleek and straight, firm and controlled but still has width and layers of flavour and texture. Refined, and definitely cool. ‘Classicism’ with no overt heat on offer. I love the hint of strawberry sweetness and tannins that completely coat the mouth. I think this will be great in time. Maybe not so charming right now but there’s no faulting the finesse and refinement. 44% grand vin production. 12% press. 3.7pH.” 97 pts., Georgina Hindle, decanter.com
£617 / Case£102.83 / BottleDuty Status: In BondAvailability: En Primeur