Château Smith Haut Lafitte

Pessac-Léognan

2020

Blend

90% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Sauvignon Gris, 5% Semillon

Wine designation

Château Smith Haut Lafitte, White, 2020
Category: Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux

Food pairing

This wine is ideal with grilled fish, seafood, or soft cheeses.

Data sheet

Château Smith Haut Lafitte

Pessac-Léognan

2020

Tasting notes

The wine is pale yellow. The nose is already quite expressive with notes of yellow fruit (peach, apricot), white flowers (acacia, orange blossom), and a lovely citrus elegance. The aromatics on the palate are similar to those on the nose, with yellow fruits and floral notes, and there is greater complexity with more mineral and spicy notes and a hint of gunflint, which is characteristic of our great terroir.

Vineyard

Vineyard size: 55 hectares, including 8 for white wines

Soil composition: Quintessential Graves with river stones or Günz gravel.

Winemaking

Fermentation container: Fermentation in French oak barrels and cold settling.

Maceration technique: Regular stirring of the lees for 12 months.

Aging: Oak barrels.

12 months – 50% new barrels + 50% previously used for one vintage.

Type of oak: French

Winemaker: Fabien Teitgen

Consulting œnologist: Michel Rolland

Heritage in the vineyard

Domaine

First established in 1365, then purchased by Scottish navigator and wine merchant, George Smith, who would re-name the Château after himself. Elevated to Grand Cru Exceptionnel status in 1842. In 1990, the estate was purchased by Daniel and Florence Cathiard, they have elevated Smith Haut-Lafitte among the leading great growth of Bordeaux.

Green in the vineyard

Environmental practices

Becoming certified organic in 2019, having applied many biodynamic practices for many years. Growing herbs on-site including yarrow, horsetail and tansy to use for decoctions. A strong philosophy to combine traditional with innovative technics in the vineyard.