Château Smith Haut Lafitte - Grand Cru Classé 'Pessac-Léognan' 2014

Le Château Smith Haut Lafitte is one of the must-have names in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, dubbed the "most Graves of Graves" due to the atypical nature of its terroir. Domaine was founded in 1365 and was then named Haut Lafitte for its geographical location. Then, when Georges Smith, a merchant of Scottish origin, acquired it in the 18th century, he added his name to it and built the Carthusian monastery we know today.

Grand Cru Classé in red in the Graves classification, Château has been owned since 1990 by Daniel and Florence Cathiard, who for several years have been committed to a bio-precision approach that combines innovation and traditional techniques in both vineyard and cellar. The wines are produced organically without chemical inputs, enriched with biodynamic methods that contribute to the expression of the terroir. 

The Château Smith Haut Lafitte is based on a 78-hectare vineyard planted on an exceptional Pyrenean gravel hilltop.the red grape varieties are 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. The grand vin is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% to 60% of which are new.

“A big black-cherry and bitter-chocolate nose leads into a rich, concentrated palate, where the fruit easily holds sway over the powerful, dry tannins. It’s these that drive everything along right through to the assertive, slightly earthy finish; impressive long-term stuff! Try in 2021.” - 96 Points, James Suckling

“Highly charged and fully aromatic on the nose. Bright and fresh, a lovely hit of acidity which gives the blueberries and black cherries lift with clear graphite and a wet stone minerality, licks of liquorice around the sides. It's a bit tight, not so soft and expansive, but with nice detail on show. Feels like they didn't push too hard and have delivered a really enjoyable glass of wine still with subtle power underneath and a long finish. You get the impression of a bit of heat and spice here which adds nuance and structure and suggests definite further ageing potential. Not weighty but flavourful.” - 95 Points, Decanter

This has a generous feel, with ripe fig, boysenberry and blueberry compote fruit flavors that are entwined with alluring roasted apple wood, melted licorice and warm fruitcake notes. The broad, mouthcoating finish has a terrific graphite underpinning to stay honest. Best from 2020 through 2035. 10,000 cases made.” - 94 Points, Wine Spectator

Producer: Château Smith Haut Lafitte

Country: France

Region: Bordeaux

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

Appellation: Pessac-Léognan

Vintage: 2014

Size: 750ml