Smith H Lafitte Pessac Leognan Rouge 2021

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Smith H Lafitte
Label Name:
 
Pessac Leognan Rouge
Vintage:
 
2021
Country:
 
France
Region:
 
Pessac-Léognan, Graves (Bordeaux)
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
13.5%
Grape(s):
 
63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Acidity:
 
4
Tannins:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
5
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
Major scores for the 2021 vintage: Vinous 96, James Suckling 96, Decanter 96, The Wine Advocate 95, Wine Spectator 93, Jeb Dunnuck 94, Falstaff 94

Tasting Note
Concentrated dark berries, blackcurrant and plum with tobacco, cedar, licorice and mocha notes. Energetic acidity, fine, firm tannins and a mineral, menthol-tinged finish; long, layered and ageworthy.

Food Pairing
Western: roast lamb, ribeye, mushroom risotto, aged cheddar. Asian: Peking duck, char siu, Korean BBQ (bulgogi), beef rendang, soy/hoisin-glazed dishes.

Production Method
Hand-harvested, rigorous sorting; fermented in temperature-controlled vats; aged 50–60% new French oak for ~15–18 months; bottled unfined/unfiltered.

Vineyard Info
Château Smith Haut Lafitte (Martillac) — Cru Classé de Graves; owned by Daniel & Florence Cathiard since 1990, known for extensive renovations and organic/biodynamic practices.