Château Smith Haut Lafitte - Pessac-Léognan - Les Hauts de Smith - Red - 2018

Wine:

The 2018 Red Pessac-Léognan Les Hauts de Smith is a masterclass in balance and charm. Silky and textured, this irresistible vintage is driven by 60% Merlot, supported by Cabernet Sauvignon, delivering a wine that is both supple and deeply expressive. Already a pleasure to drink, it unfolds with blackcurrant, cedar, and spice, wrapped in a smooth, perfectly structured frame. Fresh, elegant, and utterly captivating, it lingers on a long, spicy, and seductive finish—pure indulgence!

Vinification:

Hand harvested, 100% de-stemmed, no crushing. Fermentation with punching down and/or pumping over, then maceration for 4 to 6 weeks in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats at 26-28°C. Aged for 14 months in barrels (20% of which are new) made in the château's own cooperage.

Color:

Intense, brilliant crimson red.

Nose:

Notes of red and black fruits mixed with spicy flavours and a touch of chocolate.

Palate:

Supple and unctuous, this wine is fresh, expressive and very appealing with a spicy finish.

Temperature:

Serve between 14 and 16°C.

Food and wine pairing:

Coq au vin, filet mignon with chanterelles, grilled prime rib of beef.

Cellar aging:

From now until 2028

A benchmark of Pessac-Léognan and awarded 2 stars by the French wine guide RVF, Château Smith Haut Lafitte is renowned for its precision and consistency. Everything here is done in pursuit of excellence—in-house barrel-making, biodynamic farming, and meticulous blending—ensuring wines of remarkable balance and depth.

Made from the estate’s younger vines and select parcels of the Grand Vin, Les Hauts de Smith is a standout second wine, offering the signature elegance of the château at an exceptional value. A wine we return to every vintage—without hesitation.