Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge 2020

James Suckling 93 Decanter 96 Dark blackcurrant on the nose, clearly speaking of Cabernet Sauvignon with medicinal herbal touches too—mint, bramble and dark chocolate. Very gently chewy, with such a subtle bounce on the palate; the ripe fruit comes through to give density while the Cabernet Sauvignon provides the strength, the structure and the backbone. It fans outwards, reaching the sides of the mouth yet retaining a sense of refinement. It doesn’t feel overworked; there’s tension but nothing harsh. Structured and serious, yet full of life, with great acidity and a mouthfilling crushed-stone texture. Really delicious, and I love the outward freshness. A lovely Petit in 2020 that will also age well. Serious but captivating. Ageing 14 months, 15–20% new oak