Owners of Bordeaux’s Smith Haut Lafitte bring their Art de Vivre to Napa Valley Estate
March 6th – Cathiard Vineyard, the historic property recently acquired by Florence and Daniel Cathiard of Bordeaux’s Smith Haut Lafitte, has officially opened its doors in Napa Valley. The prestigious estate is situated in Rutherford and St. Helena at the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, and the winery’s tasting boutique offers on-site experiences featuring Cathiard Vineyard’s new range of limited-production wines.
To capture the essence of this unique terroir which covers 60 acres of estate vineyards, Cathiard Vineyard has prioritized a few critical developments: a new winery next to the historical one, a long, refurbished horseshoe cellar in the heart of the mountain, and organic and biodynamic blocks in the vineyard. In addition, the on-site cooperage in development is an important signature of the Cathiard family, a traditional Bordeaux expertise to be shared with their new Napa Valley visitors.
“We fell in love with the property’s biodiversity, and felt compelled to bring our love of nature and art de vivre here,” said Owner Florence Cathiard. “Vintners cultivated this land for more than a century before us, and we are grateful to carry the torch forward.”
The team is devoted to creating expressive wines that bring the individual energy of this terroir. The flagship wine Cathiard Vineyard is Cabernet Sauvignon from the estate’s oldest hillside vineyards, and will have exclusive access for members given its limited production. The range also includes two Cabernet-based blends, Founding Brothers and Hora, as well as additional exclusive offerings for members.
Cathiard Vineyard
Florence and Daniel Cathiard purchased the estate in 2020 after developing a deep respect for its biodiversity and terroir. This connection to nature has been the cornerstone of the Cathiard Family’s properties in Bordeaux, including Château Smith Haut Lafitte which they have owned since 1990. The team at Cathiard Vineyard includes Winemakers Justine Labbé and Ryan
Montgomery, agricultural engineers and oenologists, as well as Hospitality Lead Candice Bernard Cathiard who will oversee on-site experiences and the Membership Program. The wines of Cathiard Vineyard include its namesake Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as Cabernet based blends that reflect the unique terroir of Rutherford and St. Helena.
About Château Smith Haut Lafitte
Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Grand Cru Classé of Pessac-Léognan, was purchased by Daniel and Florence Cathiard in 1990. The 78-hectare estate (67 of red and 11 of white) is located on a hill “Lafitte”, surrounded by incredible biodiversity. In addition to the wines, the property is known for its artistic spirit and collection of sculptures. It is also the birthplace of the skincare brand Caudalie as well as the luxury Palace des Vignes Les Sources de Caudalie, which comprises a a 2 Star Michelin restaurant, country-inn restaurant, wine bar and vinotherapy Spa.
