Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, Pessac-Leognan 2006 The smells in the nose include raspberries, cherries, leather and the sweetness and toastiness of oak. In the mouth it is earthy and smoky, exhibiting complexity and a supple texture – very approachable.
The grapes behind this wine are 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. The wine is unfined and aged for 18 months in French oak, 80% of which was new. It is also unfiltered, explaining the propensity for a consistent note of leathery complexity in the wine across the many vintages.
While Pessac Leognan is the more specific appellation available to this wine, that place name is featured on the back, rather than the front label. The appellation, while established over 20 years ago to further define the wines from the 13 local villages, still lacks the fame of the larger appellation known as Les Graves. Thus you will find on the front label the earlier honor of Grand Cru Classe de Graves.
Mis au chateau by the Cathiard family, proprietaire a Martillac 13.5% available for a pre-arrival price of $52.99 at Premier Cru in Emeryville, CA. Smith Haut Lafitte
Besides the consistent and top drawer red wine, the Cathiard family has developed a spa that Linda described as first class. There is a sense of stylish luxury throughout the estate. The property is adorned with art and beneath the tasting room lies a special cellar that James Bond might wish to explore.
