In the glass
Aroma: cassis, dark cherry, herbs, pencil shavings, light spice
Palate: blackcurrant, plum, tobacco, fine tannin, fresh finish
The second red wine of Smith Haut Lafitte, sharing the estate's Martillac gravel terroir. A Cabernet-Sauvignon-led blend with cassis, fresh herbs, and pencil-shaving notes in an approachable medium-bodied style suitable for earlier drinking.
What it pairs with
-
Grilled pork chops with mustard
The wine's medium body and cassis fruit are a natural counterpoint to rich pork; mustard amplifies the herbal freshness. -
Pasta bolognese
Soft tannin and dark fruit complement a beef-rich sauce; approachable style suits a casual dinner. -
Roast chicken with tarragon cream
Medium body balances the richness of cream; herbal notes echo tarragon.
History
Le Petit Haut Lafitte was created in the early years of the Cathiard era as the estate's second red wine, aimed at providing the character of Martillac gravel Cabernet at a more accessible price point. It shares the same vineyard and cellar infrastructure as the grand vin.
- 1993 — Le Petit Haut Lafitte Rouge introduced as the second red wine of Smith Haut Lafitte
Facts
- Producer
- Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte
- Grapes
- Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (40%)
- Classification
- Pessac-Leognan AOC
- Oak
- Approximately 20 to 30% new French oak; 14 months
- ABV
- 13.5%
- Price
- EUR 30-50 at retail
- Drinking window
- 3-12 from vintage
- First vintage
- 1993
- Biodynamic
- Biodynamic Practicing
- Organic
- ECOCERT
Scores
- Wine Advocate 91 (2022 vintage, reviewed 2023)