Wines Pessac-Léognan Smith haut lafitte - 2015

Smith Haut Lafitte 2015 is an exceptional red wine from the prestigious Pessac-Léognan appellation in the Graves subregion of Bordeaux. Crafted mainly from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2015 vintage stands out for its balance of power and elegance. The season was marked by a warm and dry summer, leading to very ripe and concentrated grapes. The terroir of Smith Haut Lafitte is renowned for its deep gravel soils that ensure excellent drainage and impart a refined minerality and structure to the wine. Ageing takes place in French oak barrels, a significant proportion of which are new, lending aromatic complexity, depth, and supple tannins.

The Pessac-Léognan region, situated just south of the city of Bordeaux, enjoys a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers, ideal for growing both red and white varietals. The sandy-gravel soils, dotted with occasional clay patches, foster deep-rooted vines that produce wines renowned for their aromatic intensity and ageing potential. The area has a venerable history, being the birthplace of some of the oldest Bordeaux wine estates, and Smith Haut Lafitte itself is celebrated for its commitment to sustainable, biodynamic practices.

With its powerful nose of ripe black fruits, cassis, violets, cedar, graphite and hints of tobacco, Smith Haut Lafitte 2015 pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled red meats, lamb with herbs, or a classic Bordeaux-style entrecôte. More regional dishes, such as duck breast with a red wine reduction, would complement its rich fruit and refined tannins. The wine also works with robust wild mushroom dishes or aged, hard cheeses like Comté or ossau-iraty.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least one hour to allow its complex aromas to unfold. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C. This will accentuate its structure, freshness, and aromatic finesse, ensuring a memorable tasting experience.