2023 Smith Haut Lafitte Le Petit Haut Lafitte Blanc

the Smith Haut Lafitte winery

Château Smith Haut Lafitte is one of the icons of Pessac-Léognan, renowned for both great red and white wines. Since its acquisition by Daniel and Florence Cathiard in the 1990s, the estate has experienced an impressive increase in quality. Innovation goes hand in hand with respect for nature and tradition. Since 2019, the estate has been officially certified organic, and all vineyards are managed sustainably, with an eye for biodiversity. For example, herbicides were banned in 1991, and natural methods have been developed to prevent diseases, including the use of ultraviolet light as an alternative to copper. The vineyard benefits from a unique gravel soil that ensures perfect drainage and heat retention, imparting remarkable tension and freshness to the white wines.

the grapes and vineyard

The Le Petit Haut Lafitte Blanc 2023 is a blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sémillon. The grapes come from carefully selected plots on the estate and are harvested entirely by hand. The biodiversity in the vineyard, including sown grass cover and planted hedges, creates a natural balance that is evident in the wine. The Sauvignon Blanc delivers vibrant acidity and refined citrus aromas, while the Sémillon adds structure and depth.

vinification and maturation

After harvest, the grapes are pressed whole bunches in a special inverted press, preserving the purity and elegance of the juice. Fermentation and aging take place partly in new French oak barrels, sourced from carefully selected forests. Approximately 50% new oak is used, giving the wine a subtle texture and refined complexity without overpowering the fruit. The wine is then aged on the fine lees, giving it additional roundness and length.

color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine shines pale yellow with greenish reflections. The nose is aromatic and expressive, with notes of citrus, lime leaf, blossom, and a hint of mint. Subtle hints of menthol, crushed stone, and white fruit enhance the fresh character. The palate is medium-bodied and taut, with refined acidity that adds vibrancy. Lemon, green apple, and peach continue into a mineral and salty finish. Critics praise the wine for its "airy and vibrant" style and the elegant balance between freshness and complexity. James Suckling calls the 2023 energetic and longer-lasting than the 2022, while Antonio Galloni describes it as "pure class."

reviews and storage potential

The 2023 Le Petit Haut Lafitte Blanc received high ratings, with scores of up to 95 points. The Wine Advocate awarded it 90-93 points, noting its gastronomic bitterness and satiny texture. Antonio Galloni (Vinous) rated it 92-94 points, highlighting its refined tension and mineral character. James Suckling rated it 94-95, highlighting its lively acidity and long, crisp finish. Its aging potential extends from 2025 to at least 2040, with a peak in the first ten years.

Would you like to order Château Smith Haut Lafitte wines online?

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 these 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, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

wine and food pairings

• Grilled sea bass with lemon and fennel – a perfect match for the vibrant acidity and fresh citrus aromas.
• Lobster with saffron risotto – the creamy texture of the risotto harmonises with the subtle woody notes.
• Goat cheese and green apple salad – enhances the freshness and mineral notes of the wine.
• Veal oyster with a lemongrass sauce – the spiciness and tender meat are balanced by a salty aftertaste.
• Salmon and tuna sushi and sashimi – the delicate acidity and mineral tension enhance the pure fishy aromas.
• Ravioli filled with ricotta and spinach – the softness of the pasta and ricotta is enlivened by the citrus and apple notes.