Les Hauts de Smith Blanc 2018

1. Winery Background

Les Hauts de Smith is the second wine of the prestigious Château Smith Haut Lafitte, located in the Pessac-Léognan appellation in Bordeaux. Château Smith Haut Lafitte is one of the leading estates in Graves and is known for producing both exceptional red and white wines. With a long history dating back to the 14th century, the estate has been renowned for its commitment to traditional methods combined with modern innovation. The Cathiard family, who acquired the estate in 1990, has elevated the château’s reputation by focusing on organic farming and sustainability.

2. The Producer

The wine is produced by Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a highly respected winery in Bordeaux, known for producing elegant and age-worthy wines. The winery is recognized for its use of biodynamic practices and careful vineyard management, ensuring that the grapes reflect the terroir’s unique qualities.

3. The Vineyard

The vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte are located in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, on the left bank of Bordeaux. The terroir is made up of deep gravel soils, which are ideal for growing Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Sauvignon Gris. The vineyard is farmed organically and biodynamically, ensuring the health of the vines and the quality of the grapes.

4. The Wine

Les Hauts de Smith Blanc is the estate’s second white wine, made with the same care and attention to detail as the grand vin, but from younger vines. It is a fresh, vibrant, and elegant expression of the estate’s white varietals, focusing on delivering finesse and aromatic intensity.

5. The Vintage (2018)

The 2018 vintage in Bordeaux was marked by challenging weather conditions, including a wet spring followed by a hot and dry summer. The weather during the growing season resulted in lower yields but produced highly concentrated, aromatic wines with excellent balance. For whites, the vintage offered wines with ripe fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and great aging potential.

6. Vinification and Aging

After hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo careful selection. Fermentation takes place in a combination of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels to maintain freshness while adding complexity. The wine is aged in French oak barrels for about 10 months, with a portion of new oak, adding richness and depth to the final product.

7. The Grapes

• Sauvignon Blanc (majority)

• Sémillon

• Sauvignon Gris

Sauvignon Blanc is the dominant grape in the blend, providing crisp acidity, citrus, and mineral flavors. Sémillon adds roundness and texture, while Sauvignon Gris contributes aromatic complexity and exotic fruit notes.

8. Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Pale yellow with golden reflections.

• Nose: Aromas of citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit), white flowers, tropical fruits, and subtle hints of vanilla and spices from oak aging.

• Palate: Fresh and lively on the palate, with flavors of citrus, stone fruits, and a touch of honey. The wine has a crisp acidity balanced by a creamy texture, with minerality on the finish.

• Finish: Long, elegant, with a lingering mineral and citrus zest aftertaste.

9. Food and Wine Pairing

Les Hauts de Smith Blanc 2018 pairs beautifully with a variety of seafood dishes, such as:

• Grilled or roasted white fish

• Shellfish (lobster, scallops, oysters)

• Sushi and sashimi

• Goat cheese or mild creamy cheeses

• Light poultry dishes with lemon or herb-based sauces

• Mediterranean salads or dishes with citrus or herbal elements

10. Service

• Serving Temperature: Serve chilled at around 10-12°C (50-54°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic profile and freshness.

• Decanting: This wine can be enjoyed immediately but benefits from brief decanting (around 30 minutes) to open up its aromatic complexity.

11. Storage

• Aging Potential: Les Hauts de Smith Blanc 2018 can be enjoyed in its youth for its fresh, vibrant fruit, but it also has the structure to age gracefully for up to 7-10 years, developing more complex aromas and flavors over time.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place with consistent temperatures, ideally around 12°C (55°F), to ensure optimal aging.

12. Scores

• Wine Advocate: 91 points

• James Suckling: 92 points

• Wine Spectator: 91 points

Les Hauts de Smith Blanc 2018 is a refined and elegant white Bordeaux, offering a harmonious balance of freshness, aromatic complexity, and depth, making it a great choice for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring.