Le Petit Smith Haut Lafitte 2024

Characteristics and tasting advice for the 2024 Petit Smith Haut Lafitte white from Château Smith Haut Lafitte

Tasting

Color
Pale gold color with delicate green reflections.

Nose
The bouquet is fresh and delicate, offering expressive notes of white peach, acacia flower, and citrus zest that intertwine harmoniously.

Palate
On the palate, this wine seduces with its balance between roundness and vivacity. The aromas of mandarin and chamomile unfold elegantly, supported by a beautiful mineral tension. The finish, long and fresh, reveals a subtle bitterness that adds complexity and aromatic persistence.

Food and wine pairings

The 2024 Petit Smith Haut Lafitte white will perfectly accompany delicate fish, seafood, and shellfish. It will also pair well with creamy poultry dishes or fresh goat cheeses. Its mineral tension makes it an ideal companion for iodized dishes such as oysters or scallops.

The minerality and refinement of a second white wine from Pessac-Léognan

The property

At the heart of the Pessac-Léognan appellation, the Château Smith Haut Lafitte is among the oldest wine estates in Bordeaux, with origins dating back to 1365. The acquisition of the property by Daniel and Florence Cathiard in 1990 marks a decisive turning point in its history. Driven by an ambitious vision and a deep passion, the Cathiard couple has raised the estate to the top of the Graves. Today, Smith Haut Lafitte shines internationally with its Red wines and White wines recognized for their refinement and unique signature.

The vineyard

The Petit Smith Haut Lafitte white comes from specific plots of the Pessac-Léognan vineyard, cultivated using organic and biodynamic farming. The vines, averaging 12 years old, are planted on a soil of günzian gravels, typical of the appellation, bringing minerality and freshness to the wine. Mass selection with rootstocks from the mother vine of the property ensures the preservation of the genetic heritage and the authentic expression of the terroir.

Vinification and aging

The grapes are hand-picked in small crates and then subjected to inert pressing to preserve their aromatic freshness. After cold static settling, fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, 50% of which are new. Aging continues for 12 months on lees with regular stirring, in barrels half of which are new and the other half of a wine. These barrels are made in the estate's integrated cooperage, ensuring perfect control of aging.

Blend

80% Sauvignon Blanc, bringing freshness, vivacity, and citrus notes, complemented by 20% Sémillon which provides structure, roundness, and aging potential.