2003 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Pessac-Leognan Blanc

A purchase by the Cathiard family in 1990 prompted a total transformation of this old property in Pessac-Leognan. Sure, the premises were renovated. But the most exciting change is with the wines themselves. Today's offerings are impressively concentrated and fairly full-bodied yet suave, in a modern style. Gravel soils allow excellent natural drainage in the vineyards, and the small stones also reflect the sun's rays, aiding the grapes in attaining maximum ripeness. The Cathiard family has also elevated their white wine, made almost entirely from Sauvignon Blanc, to the level of the top dry whites of Bordeaux.

A purchase by the Cathiard family in 1990 prompted a total transformation of this old property in Pessac-Leognan. Sure, the premises were renovated. But the most exciting change is with the wines themselves. Today's offerings are impressively concentrated and fairly full-bodied y... more