Excursion Château smith haut lafitte private visit tour at Bordeaux
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Savour some of Bordeaux region's finest wines during this unforgettable excursion to the private cellars of the Pessac Léognan-classified 'Great Growth' estate, Château Smith Haut Lafitte.
Bordeaux, Pessac-Léognan Vineyards and Château Smith Haut Lafitte
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Pessac-Léognan vineyards. Upon arrival, head to the Pessac-Léognan-classified 'Great Growth' estate, Château Smith Haut Lafitte. This estate owes its reputation as 'the quintessential Graves' to its superb Günz gravel terroir in a single block. The estate's history dates back to the Crusades. Scottish navigator Georges Smith acquired the château in the 18th century and Monsieur Duffour-Dubergier, a Mayor of Bordeaux from a famous family of négociants, was a subsequent owner.
Estate and Secret Wine Cellars Tour
Since its purchase by Florence and Daniel Cathiard in 1990, Château Smith Haut Lafitte has become one of the leading lights of Bordeaux thanks to its elegant, powerful red and white wines. Since then, the owners have not only brought the wine of Smith Haut Lafitte up to the very highest level, but also restored the château's 16th-century tower, completely renovated two underground cellars, built their own cooperage and introduced such organic methods as horse-drawn ploughing, homemade compost, the use of plant extracts, etc. Your guided tour of the estate includes special access to the owners' private, secret cellars to see many wonderful wine treasures.
Château Smith Haut Lafitte Wine Tasting
Afterward, proceed to the tasting room for a private tasting of three wines. Included are both first-label wines from the estate (Château Smith Haut Lafitte red and white), and one red wine from its second-label (Les Hauts de Smith). Following this unforgettable visit to the Château Smith Haut Lafitte and tasting of the finest wines of the Bordeaux wine region, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and standing for approximately 437 yards (about 400 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and access the wine cellars. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 21 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Bordeaux, Pessac-Léognan Vineyards, Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Private Cellars Tour and Tasting