Château Smith Haut Lafitte, 2010

Description

Château Smith Haut Lafitte is a prestigious estate in the Pessac Leognan region. With a long history in Bordeaux dating back over 800 years. The estate started out life as part of the Du Boscq holdings in the Graves region. It was Du Boscq who first planted vines in 1365 on a gravelly plateau called Lafitte. This is of course where part of the famous chateau took its name from.

Today, Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte is owned and managed by Daniel Cathiard and Florence Cathiard. The Cathiards purchased the estate in 1990. According to Daniel Cathiard, there were numerous estates in Bordeaux for sale at the time. But a big part of the reason they purchased Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte had to do with the fact that Smith Haut Lafitte is one of the few Bordeaux vineyards producing both red and white wines.

Tasting Notes

Grape Blend: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

"Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Smith Haut Lafitte delivers notes of baked plums, boysenberries and dried mulberries with an undercurrent of cigar box, new leather and bouquet garni. Full-bodied, the palate has firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness supporting the maturing fruit, finishing on a stewed tea note."

- Robert Parker Wine Advocate

Serving Suggestions

Best paired with all types of classic meat dishes, veal, pork, beef, lamb, duck, game, roast chicken, roasted, braised, and grilled dishes.

Ratings

Robert Parker Wine Advocate 98, James Suckling 95-96, Decanter 97, Wine Spectator 96