At a glance

Producer

Château Smith Haut Lafitte

Region

Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$80

Tasting profile

Ripe black currant, cedar, tobacco, subtle spice, and earth notes.

Evolution: Fruit will soften, tertiary aromas like leather and forest floor will develop over the next decade.

At peak: Complex and harmonious with silky tannins and lingering finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium to Firm

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

15-25 years total, excellent for Bordeaux blend

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2038

Optimal window

2020 to 2041

Current status

In good drinking window, approaching peak maturity

Current condition

Balanced tannins with maturing fruit complexity

This is a fine Bordeaux second wine from a top Pessac-Léognan property. 2013 is a good vintage but slightly early drinking compared to their top vintages. The wine has sufficient structure and balance to continue evolving well into the late 2020s, with peak drinkability expected mid to late 2020s based on producer style and vintage conditions.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with roast lamb, grilled beef, game birds, mushroom dishes, and aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To open up aromas and soften tannins for more immediate enjoyment.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of cover crops, integrated pest management, optimized water use, solar energy panels installed on estate, lightweight bottles to reduce transport emissions.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte places strong emphasis on sustainable viticulture, including organic principles though not fully organic certified. They invest in energy efficiency and water conservation. The terroir-driven approach minimizes chemical inputs. Packaging is optimized for lower weight to improve carbon footprint. Overall sustainability score is good but not biodynamic or fully organic.