A superb mature white Bordeaux with vibrant freshness and depth. Aromas of citrus, Granny Smith apple, pear and peach mingle with sage, mint and subtle exotic notes. The palate is full-bodied yet crisp and precise, balancing juicy lime and gooseberry fruit with refined oak, creamy texture and a mineral-driven finish. Layered, elegant and expressive, this is drinking beautifully now while retaining further ageing potential.

The Wine Advocate | RP 95
Published: Oct 28, 2016
Drink: 2019-2035

Tasted blind at the Southwold 2012 tasting. The 2012 Smith-Haut-Lafitte Blanc has an intense bouquet with mint-fresh Granny Smith apple scents, quite exotic compared to its peers, greengage and gooseberry, a touch of tinned apricot. The palate is crisp and fresh on the entry with lime and gooseberry notes, the acidity well judged, a healthy veneer of new oak, but it is totally in sync with the fruit. Give this 4-5 years for everything to fully assimilate and you will have a splendid white Bordeaux. This is pure nectar. Tasted January 2016. 

James Suckling | JS 95
Published: Feb 7, 2015

Aromas of cream, cooked apples and pears follow through to a full body with toasted-oak, cream and vanilla character buttressed by plenty of fruit. So much peach and apricot character. This a bright and flamboyant wine for the vintage. One of the best dry whites. Drink or hold.

Decanter | D 94
Published: Jun 8, 2021
Drink: 2022-2030

The 2012 is a fine expression of the estate's potential to produce white wines and offers a fresh bouquet of citrus, sage, verbena, spring flowers and pears. Balanced and layered, the palate is fresh and juicy with citrus hints and a mineral-driven finish. Drink it now or over the next three to five years.