Les Hauts de Smith 2016

The 2016 Les Hauts de Smith is pliant, racy and inviting. This Merlot-based wine offers tons of early accessibility and sheer appeal. Super-ripe red cherry, raspberry, mint, rose petal and dried flowers add grace throughout. A range of striking floral/savory Cabernet Sauvignon aromatics add complexity, while the Merlot is felt in the wine's fleshiness.

The 2016 Les Hauts de Smith, which is matured in 20% new oak, has a lifted, quite floral, nonchalant bouquet of black cherries and a touch of boysenberry. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity, a little chewiness that imparts a sense of rusticity, and a seaweed note lending some complexity on the Cabernet-driven finish. Very fine.

Majority Merlot (with the remainder Cabernet Sauvignon), with a gourmet edge of blackberry fruits, chocolate and caramel hints. This is a vintage that really suits Merlot and so suits the style of Merlot dominant Les Hauts de Smith. Soft tannins that are fleshy and easy to love. Aged in 20% new oak. Drink 2020-2028.