With a name like George Smith, you could be mistaken for thinking this vineyard was on the northern side of the 'channel', but alas, it resides in Pessac-Léognan in France's famed Bordeaux region. Bought by the Englishman in 1720, the wine still bears his name. The red wine that comes out of the estate is one of aromatics and spiciness and of recent times, more opulence and fruit weight.

Chateau Lafite Rothschild is one of the most renowned properties in the Médoc. Owned by Baron Eric de Rothschild and located in the north of the Pauillac appellation, Lafite Rothschild is also one of the largest Médoc estates. It has 95 hectares of vineyards planted with Cabernet Sauvignon (70%), Merlot (20%) and Cabernet Franc (10%). Lafite Rothschild's vineyards lie on deep gravel beds (up to 5 metres thick) over marl and limestone. Of all the Médoc Grand Crus, Lafite Rothschild can be the most beguiling and difficult to understand. It is never the most powerful, yet, along with Margaux, possesses the most exquisite bouquet of any Médoc wine. It has the elegance, balance and harmony that epitomises claret at its very best.

The grand vin 2017 Chateau Cos D'Estournel comprises 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, and 1% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot brought up in 60% new French oak. It is a lively and expressive vintage. It is full bodied, tannin-abundant, yet tight and reserved on the palate. It will age very well.

The 2017 Haut-Bailly is composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. Very deep garnet-purple colored, it has a wonderfully spicy nose of cinnamon stick, cloves, anise and fenugreek with core of roses, warm blueberries, black forest cake and black raspberries plus hints of underbrush and iron ore. Medium to full-bodied with firm, ripe, grainy tannins, it has oodles of freshness and great finesse, continuing bright and energetic on the long, minerally finish.

An attractive wooden twin-pack case showcasing two classic Bordeaux blends: 2018 Chateau Haut Madrac is a Cru Bourgeois in the Haut Médoc. A blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Merlot, it is an elegant yet powerful example claret with depth of flavour. 2022 Horizon de Lynch is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Intense purple in colour, with aromas of toasty cedar, dark plums, and liquorice. Fine tannins round out the silky finish - a great example of a modern and highly drinkable claret.

Crisp, classic Cabernet aromas of blackcurrant and tobacco lifted with hints of dark cherry and rosemary. A pleasing, measured mid-weight appeal and a freshness that really brings this wine to life. On the palate the primary dark berry and cassis notes are joined by notions of forest floor occasional hints of black pepper then a savoury yet sapid blackcurrant finish. Despite this wines immediate appeal there is also some gentle tannic grip that will ensure it drinks well for a number of years to come.

Carruades de Lafite, the second wine of the esteemed Château Lafite Rothschild in Bordeaux, France, exemplifies the winery's commitment to excellence and offers a compelling expression of the Pauillac appellation. Sourced from the same vineyards as its grand vin counterpart, Carruades de Lafite showcases a refined and approachable style, characterized by elegant fruit flavors, harmonious structure, and a notable sense of finesse. While it may not possess the same depth and longevity as the grand vin, it remains a highly regarded and sought-after wine, providing wine enthusiasts with a captivating glimpse into the renowned heritage of Château Lafite Rothschild.

Château Duhart-Milon is a fourth growth (Quatrième Cru Classé) estate in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux. Part of the Domaines Barons de Rothschild, the wine is made by the same winemaking team as Château Lafite. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with a substantial component of Merlot, the Grand Vin is matured for 18 months in approximately 50% new French oak barriques. Château Duhart-Milon is typically a sturdy solid Pauillac with firm structure and earthy savoury richness.

Château Duhart-Milon’s second wine is selected on the same basis as the “Grand Vin”. In general, the grapes are from the younger plots in the vineyard. Moulin de Duhart has several characteristics similar to the grand vin, but with less potential for ageing as its barrel ageing period is shorter. It should be consumed younger than its more robust counterpart. The origin of the name comes from the former presence of a windmill on the Carruades plateau, next to the Duhart-Milon vineyard.