2021 Château Smith Haut-Lafitte Grand Cru Classé de Graves Magnum

Château Smith Haut-Lafitte Winery

Château Smith Haut-Lafitte is a leading Grand Cru Classé from Pessac-Léognan, run by the Cathiard family since 1990. The estate combines tradition with innovation and operates entirely organically, with a strong focus on biodiversity and soil health. Its own cooperage, extensive vineyard selection, and meticulous vinification characterize its style: power and concentration, yet always with freshness and terroir expression. More information about this winery can be found under the "Winery" tab.

Region, terroir and vintage 2021

Smith Haut-Lafitte is situated on the characteristically gravelly soils of Pessac-Léognan, where layers of gravel ensure excellent drainage and heat retention. The 2021 vintage was characterized by a classic and relatively cool growing season. This resulted in wines with moderate alcohol, refined structure, and pronounced aromatic tension. Rather than pure power, the emphasis is on elegance, freshness, and precision.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The 2021 vintage is composed of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the profile, providing structure and graphite minerality, while Merlot adds roundness and texture. The vineyards are farmed organically, with a focus on low yields and optimal ripeness. This combination produces a wine with clear focus and terroir-driven character.

Vinification and maturation

After careful selection, the wine underwent vinification focused on gentle extraction and preserving aromatic finesse. Maturation took place in oak barriques, some of them new, which imparts subtle spice and structure without overpowering the fruit. The integration of oak and fruit is seamless, contributing to the satiny texture and refined, lingering finish.

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine reveals a deep ruby red. The nose is intense and layered, with aromas of blackcurrant, wild berries, and cherries, complemented by violets, lavender, and a hint of menthol. Notes of graphite, pencil shavings, licorice, and spices add complexity. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with creamy, velvety tannins and a core of dark fruit. Notes of mocha, cocoa, and a light smokiness accompany the long, refined, and energetic finish.

Magnum: size and development

This 1.5-liter magnum bottle offers extra aging potential. The more favorable ratio of wine to oxygen allows the wine to develop more slowly and evenly, resulting in greater complexity and harmony over time. For a wine with the structure and tension of 2021, the magnum is a particularly suitable size.

Development and professional assessments

The 2021 Smith Haut-Lafitte is highly rated with 95 points from The Wine Advocate and 96 points from both James Suckling and Antonio Galloni. The drinking windows range from 2027 to 2046. The ratings emphasize the combination of energy, precision, and refined power, with pronounced aromatic intensity and elegant structure. The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

Wine-Food and Discount

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers. In the "Food" tab, you'll find advice on what to consider for the perfect wine-food pairing and several dish suggestions from our Sommelier.