Château Smith Haut Lafitte 2024

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château Smith Haut Lafitte Red 2024

Tasting

Nose
The bouquet is expressive and complex, first revealing aromas of fresh red fruits (raspberry, cherry, morello cherry), then evolving towards notes of mint, blond tobacco and sweet spices. Upon aeration, the nose gains in complexity and reveals all the typicity of the gravel soils.

Palate
The attack is balanced, marked by a beautiful freshness. The texture reveals itself to be both supple and delicate, offering a remarkable balance between structure and flavors. The wine unfolds a generous volume and an impressive length, supported by a vibrant vivacity. The aromas of fresh red fruits, blackcurrant, spices and fresh herbs (blond tobacco, clove, sage) harmonize perfectly, creating a complete and refined tasting experience.

Food and wine pairings
This Red wine pairs perfectly with grilled red meats, dishes in sauce, or even aged cheeses. It also goes very well with dishes based on mushrooms or truffles, highlighting its aromatic complexity.

A grand cru from Pessac-Léognan combining freshness, harmony and complexity

The property
In the heart of the Pessac-Léognan appellation, the Château Smith Haut Lafitte is among the oldest wine estates in Bordeaux, with origins dating back to 1365. The acquisition of the property by Daniel and Florence Cathiard in 1990 marks a decisive turning point in its history. Driven by an ambitious vision and a deep passion, the Cathiard couple have raised the estate to the top of the Graves. Today, Smith Haut Lafitte shines internationally thanks to its Red wines and White wines recognized for their refinement and unique signature.

The vineyard
The Pessac-Léognan vineyard from which this wine comes benefits from an exceptional terroir composed of günzian gravels, these semi-precious pebbles and stones that promote optimal drainage and reflect heat towards the vines. The average age of the vines is 49 years, contributing to the depth and complexity of the wine. Cultivated according to the principles of organic and biodynamic agriculture, the vineyard is meticulously cared for to preserve the authentic expression of its terroir.

Vinification and aging
The whole berries are fermented in small wooden vats at 28°C. The extraction is particularly gentle, carried out by manual punch-downs to preserve the finesse of the tannins and the expression of the fruit. The aging extends over 18 months in barrels, 60% of which are new and made on site by the estate's cooperage. The wine is aged on lees with a single racking, and each wine benefits from an aging adapted to its profile.

Blend
67% Cabernet Sauvignon, providing structure and aging potential, 27% Merlot for roundness and fruit, 5% Cabernet Franc adding finesse and aromatic complexity and 1% Petit Verdot for color and spicy notes.