Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge - Pessac-Léognan 1999

Wine Advocate

90 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2002

This is a sizable wine for the vintage, although I do not believe it will have the longevity of the 1998 or 2000. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by sweet, asphalt-tinged, earthy, cassis fruit with toasty pain grille notes in the background. There are loads of fruit and charm as well as a creamy texture revealing hints of tobacco, currants, and wood smoke. It is medium-bodied and supple-textured, and will provide ideal drinking over the next 12-15 years.

Wine Spectator

86 / 100

byJames Sucklingthe3/31/2002

Tobacco, earthy and plummy aromas. Medium-bodied, with medium tannins and a coffee, green tobacco aftertaste. Best after 2003. 9,165 cases made.

Wine Advocate

87-89 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2001

A dark ruby/purple color is accompanied by a sweet perfume of red and black currants, minerals, and smoke. The wine is medium-bodied and nicely-concentrated, with low acidity, and a spicy, soft, supple finish. Anticipated maturity: now-2014.

Wine Advocate

87-88 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2000

The Cathiards deserve credit for resurrecting this once moribund property. The 1999 boasts a dark ruby/purple color as well as a vivacious, red currant, spice, and toast-scented nose, and medium-bodied, lively flavors presented in an elegant, attractive format. If not for some shortness and lightness in the finish, it would have merited a higher rating.