Pessac-Léognan Rouge Grand Cru Classé 2021 - Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte

Why Choose Château Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge 2021

Château Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge 2021 is a wine that combines classic depth, aromatic complexity, and modern precision. An auteur red, elegant yet powerful, it reflects the greatness of Graves in a vintage marked by freshness, minerality, and vibrancy.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge 2021 is one of the most extraordinary expressions of the Pessac-Léognan terroir, a Cru Classé de Graves born from the passion and vision of Daniel and Florence Cathiard, who, since 1990, have transformed a ruined château into one of the most respected and innovative names in Bordeaux viticulture.

The estate today covers 67 hectares of vineyards, cultivated with a bio-precision approach, combining sustainability and advanced technology (including satellite monitoring and integrated vineyard ecosystem management) to enhance the full expressiveness of traditional grape varieties.

Blend and Vinification

The 2021 vintage is the result of a classic Bordeaux blend, composed of: 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. Vinification is carried out with whole bunches in small wooden vats at 28°C, with gentle extraction through manual pigeage to preserve aromatic purity and tannic finesse. Aging lasts 18 months in barriques, 60% of which are new, crafted in the château’s own cooperage. The wine is matured on the lees, with only one racking, to maintain its complexity.

The average vine age exceeds 48 years, a precious plant heritage that gives the wine depth and identity. Each bottle is equipped with a Prooftag traceability system to guarantee authenticity.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, the color is a bright, intense ruby red. The nose opens with fresh and crisp red fruit notes (raspberry, strawberry) and ripe black fruits (blackberry, cassis), accompanied by a refined bouquet of star anise, licorice, tobacco, sweet spices, and a subtle smoky hint reminiscent of the typical Graves soils.

On the palate, the wine is lively, harmonious, and energetic, with a lovely freshness on the attack and an elegant, silky tannic texture. The structure is enveloping, supported by a refined minerality that adds drive and depth. The finish is long and complex, with a masterful balance of tension, density, and softness.

Recommended Pairings

Perfect with red meats, game, structured dishes with mushrooms or truffles, aged cheeses, and haute cuisine. Also excellent for cellaring or special occasions, thanks to its aging potential.