Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge

In the glass

Aroma: cassis, tobacco, graphite, licorice, spice

Palate: dark berries, crushed violet, cedar, dark chocolate, coffee

A benchmark Pessac-Leognan Cabernet since the Cathiard family's acquisition in 1990. Cassis, graphite, and tobacco define a precise, structured palate; 60% new oak ageing adds cedar and spice. Consistent 97-98 point scores in recent vintages.

What it pairs with

• Roasted Pauillac lamb with garlic and herbs
  Cabernet structure and herbal notes are the classic match for roasted lamb; cassis depth echoes the reduction.
• Grilled sirloin with green peppercorn sauce
  Firm tannins cut through beef fat; the wine's graphite and spice amplify the peppercorn savour.
• Duck breast with cherry compote
  Dark berry fruit complements duck richness; the compote mirrors the wine's cassis and dark-plum character.
• Truffle and mushroom beef wellington
  Truffle earthiness and layered dark fruit in the wine align with the earthy complexity of a wellington.

History

Although Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte dates to the 18th century, the modern era of quality wine begins with Daniel and Florence Cathiard's acquisition in 1990. Their investment in viticulture and winemaking equipment transformed the estate into one of Pessac-Leognan's most consistent performers, frequently scoring in the high 90s. The Cathiards also built Les Sources de Caudalie, a wine spa resort on the estate.

1. 1842 — George Smith, a Scottish tea merchant, acquires the estate and names it Smith Haut Lafitte
2. 1953 — Classified as Cru Classe de Graves in the Graves classification
3. 1990 — Daniel and Florence Cathiard purchase the estate; quality transformation begins
4. 1999 — Les Sources de Caudalie wine spa resort opens on the estate

Facts

Producer

Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte

Grapes

Cabernet Sauvignon (65%), Merlot (30%), Cabernet Franc (4%), Petit Verdot (1%)

Classification

Cru Classe de Graves (1953 classification)

Oak

60% new French oak; 16 to 18 months

ABV

13.8%

Price

EUR 90-150 at retail

Drinking window

8-25 from vintage

First vintage

1990

Biodynamic

Biodynamic Practicing

Organic

ECOCERT

Scores

• Wine Advocate 95 (2022 vintage, reviewed 2023)
• James Suckling 98 (2022 vintage, reviewed 2023)
• Wine Advocate 98 (2020 vintage, reviewed 2023)

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