Le Petit Haut Lafitte Bordeaux Pessac-Léognan

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Le Petit Haut Lafitte Bordeaux Pessac-Léognan is a sensory delight for connoisseurs. The nose unfolds with a bouquet of ripe stone fruits—peaches and apricots—complemented by complex undertones of black plum, blackberry, and the signature cassis typical of a Bordeaux blend. Floral hints add an elegant touch, while the earthy sous-bois character and grilled apricot layers bring depth to the aromatic profile. On tasting, it reveals a harmonious play of cassis and plum purée, enriched by blackberry compote. These primary flavors are gracefully interwoven with savory herbal nuances and intriguing notes of licorice and warm loam. Mineral accents and a whisper of tobacco linger towards the finish, entwined in the subtleties afforded by oak aging, with spices hinting at its development. The texture is medium-bodied yet luxuriously creamy, supported by fine-grained tannins and a long, balanced finish that leaves a memorable impression on the palate.

Pairings & Suggestions

Red Meat Delights: Enhance the flavors of Le Petit Haut Lafitte by pairing it with roasted and grilled meats. A tender lamb chop or a perfectly seared steak will bring out the savory, herbal nuances in this wine.

Game and Poultry: Game meats such as venison, duck, or pheasant, as well as roasted chicken with herbs, will complement the wine’s intricate flavors, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Mushroom Medley: A risotto with wild mushrooms or a creamy mushroom sauce will harmonize beautifully with the earthy notes in the wine, offering a delightful vegetarian pairing.

Gourmet Cheeses: Opt for aged cheeses like Comté or Gouda, whose rich textures will contrast the wine’s fine tannins while enhancing its fruit notes.

Seafood Selection: Grilled salmon or seared scallops served with a herb-infused butter can offer a surprising yet satisfying match, accentuating the wine’s floral and citrus notes.

Where Tradition Meets Sustainability

Many people may not be aware that while Le Petit Haut Lafitte has carved a niche for itself in the realm of fine Bordeaux wines, it’s deeply rooted in innovation and ecological sensitivity. The Cathiard family, who acquired the estate in 1990, have transformed it not just in terms of winemaking precision but also in its integration with nature. They famously implemented a “bio-precision” approach, blending traditional farming with modern, sustainable techniques—a move that earned them the Robert Parker Green Emblem. This commitment goes beyond agriculture; it involves the entire estate’s ecosystem, minimizing waste and fostering a circular economy. Such practices resonate with the modern wine connoisseur who values both exceptional taste and ecological responsibility. This narrative of intertwining tradition with innovation makes Le Petit Haut Lafitte not only a product of quality but also a beacon of sustainable winemaking for the future.

Taste Profile

Technical Sheet

Storage Instructions

Store Le Petit Haut Lafitte in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature between 12-15°C (54-59°F) and 60-70% humidity to preserve its quality.