Château Smith Haut Lafitte

Bordeaux, France

No.5 The World's Best Vineyards 2025

With a history dating back to the 14th century, the domain has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past 30 years under the visionary leadership of Daniel and Florence Cathiard. Today, Smith Haut Lafitte is a paradise for wine lovers and travellers seeking a unique experience that combines luxury, art, gastronomy and ecology.

The château is distinguished by its approach to biodynamic agriculture, which promotes biodiversity and self-sufficiency in plants used for phytotherapy. Visitors can see Shire horses ploughing land surrounded by woodland, orchards and beehives, and even meet the llamas that help weed the inter-rows. The stealth winery is a technological feat, with its positive-energy and CO₂-recycling systems, as well as its own cooperage to control the impact of oak with minute precision.

In addition to its ecological practices, Château Smith Haut Lafitte is also renowned for its collection of contemporary artworks, which form an integral part of visiting the estate. Visitors can explore the art trail, admiring inspiring installations that dot the vineyard and winery.

The château produces red and white blends using all seven Bordeaux grape varieties. Each grape is harvested by hand with great precision using satellite imagery, and then sorted according to the progress of each plot, rather than a fixed date imposed on the whole vineyard. The result is complex, balanced wines that reflect the essence of the Bordeaux terroir.

Visitors can also enjoy the warm hospitality of the Cathiards, who have created a true oasis of luxury in the vineyards of Bordeaux. The five-star Les Sources de Caudalie offers refined accommodation, Michelin‑starred cuisine, a Caudalie Vinothérapie spa, boutique, wine bar, swimming pool, gym, sauna, tennis court and much more. A visit to Smith Haut Lafitte is an unforgettable experience that is sure to delight all the senses.

In 2023, thanks to its strong commitment to sustainability and the environment, Smith Haut Lafitte was chosen by King Charles III as the sole vineyard he visited in France during his first state visit as monarch.

Key Information

Opening times: Mon – Sun: 09:00 – 19:00 (including bank holidays)
Signature wine: Château Smith Haut Lafitte
Wines produced: Red, White
Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, Semillon