Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a distinguished Grand Cru Classé de Graves, presents its 2017 Rouge, an expression of Pessac-Léognan's unique terroir. Situated on deep gravelly soils over a clay-limestone bedrock, the estate benefits from exceptional drainage and heat retention, ideal for the cultivation of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
The 2017 vintage in Bordeaux was characterized by an early growing season and a challenging spring frost, though Smith Haut Lafitte's vineyard management and specific microclimate largely mitigated its impact. A warm, dry summer followed, leading to a harvest that yielded wines of notable freshness, aromatic purity, and refined structure. The estate's commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture, coupled with precise winemaking – including optical sorting, gravity-fed operations, and judicious oak ageing – ensures a faithful translation of its provenance.
This release exemplifies the appellation's capacity for producing clarets that balance power with elegance, showcasing the characteristic smoky, mineral notes often associated with the Graves region, alongside a vibrant fruit profile.
Tasting notes
The 2017 Château Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge reveals a complex aromatic profile, opening with notes of cassis, black cherry, and graphite, interwoven with subtle hints of cedar, tobacco leaf, and a characteristic Graves minerality. On the palate, it presents a medium-bodied structure with refined tannins and a vibrant acidity that underscores its freshness.
Flavours of dark fruit persist, complemented by nuances of liquorice, forest floor, and a touch of smoky spice from its oak maturation. The finish is elongated and precise, demonstrating both elegance and the potential for graceful evolution. This vintage offers a harmonious balance, reflecting the cooler aspects of the growing season while retaining the depth expected from this esteemed estate.