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Pessac-Léognan – Graves, Bordeaux
Château Smith Haut Lafitte: distinctive power, mineral brilliance & contemporary mastery
Classified as a Grand Cru of Graves, Château Smith Haut Lafitte embodies the harmonious balance of power, mineral brilliance, and refined elegance. Located in the heart of Pessac-Léognan, the estate spans 78 hectares in a single block (67 ha red, 11 ha white). Since 1990, the Cathiard family has elevated the château to one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking properties in Bordeaux, thanks to sustainable viticulture, precise winemaking, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Terroir & Grape Varieties
The vines are planted on deep Gunzian gravel, perfectly draining and resting on a clay-limestone subsoil. This exceptional terroir fosters even ripening and gives the wines their saline tension, aromatic purity, and distinctive structure.
Grape Composition — Red
| Variety | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Cabernet Sauvignon | 55% |
| Merlot | 34% |
| Cabernet Franc | 10% |
| Petit Verdot | 1% |
Grape Composition — White
| Variety | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Sauvignon Blanc | 90% |
| Sauvignon Gris | 5% |
| Sémillon | 5% |
Viticulture & Winemaking
The estate is farmed organically with biodynamic practices. Harvesting is done by hand, with parcel-based vinifications carried out in a gravity-fed cellar to preserve the integrity of the berries.
- Red: Aged for 16 to 18 months in barrels (≈ 60% new oak).
- White: Gentle pressing, barrel fermentation, and ageing on fine lees for 12 months.
This meticulous approach reveals the depth and precision of the terroir.
Signature cuvées
Château Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge
Structured, spicy and elegant, with great density and an exceptional ageing potential (20–30 years).
Château Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc
One of the greatest dry whites of Bordeaux: vibrant, floral and saline, with a mineral and crystalline profile.
Les Hauts de Smith (Red & White)
A refined and approachable second wine, ideal for earlier drinking.
Le Petit Haut Lafitte
A more concentrated profile, crafted for export markets.
Rosé “Les Hauts de Smith”
A delicate press rosé with elegant texture and bright fruit aromas.
Style & Tasting Signature
The Smith Haut Lafitte style is defined by controlled intensity, precise minerality, and vibrant aromatics.
- Red: depth, freshness, and noble tannins.
- White: saline tension and floral elegance, ranking among the benchmarks of the appellation.
Technical Sheet
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Classification | Grand Cru Classé de Graves |
| Vineyard area | 78 ha (67 ha red, 11 ha white) |
| Annual production | approx. 110,000 bottles |
| Red grape blend | 55% Cab. Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 10% Cab. Franc, 1% Petit Verdot |
| White grape blend | 90% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Sauvignon Gris, 5% Sémillon |
| Average vine age | 30 years |
| Top vintages | 2010, 2009, 2005, 2000 |
Food Pairings
- Red: grilled rib of beef, game birds, roast lamb, aged cheeses.
- White: noble fish, shellfish, roasted lobster, poultry with cream, fresh cheeses.
- Rosé: Mediterranean and summer cuisine.
