Ideally situated in the heart of the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Les Sources de Caudalie is deeply rooted in its terroir and intimately linked to the world of wine and the activities that go with it. So when harvest time arrives in Bordeaux, the hotel and its vineyards play an active part in this long-established regional tradition. Harvest time, in the cool of autumn, marks the end of work in the vineyard and the beginning of work in the cellar, the winemaking process. This is a key stage in the wine-making process that Les Sources de Caudalie shares with its guests, who are curious to take part in the harvest and the winemaker's work. A time of great conviviality, the grape harvest is a real part of Bordeaux culture.
Experience the Bordeaux grape harvest with Les Sources de Caudalie
Les Sources de Caudalie invites wine lovers to discover its vineyards and enjoy experiences based on its nectars and gastronomy. At the hotel, the head sommelier opens the doors of his cellar and gives oenology lessons based on discovery and exchange. Whether you're curious or a connoisseur, he'll be able to adapt to the needs and desires of his visitors. This introduction can be followed by a tasting at the Château Smith Haut Lafitte. All year round, the Château offers tours of its vineyards, cellars and cooperage to give visitors a better understanding of the different stages in the work of the vines and grapes. These visits are particularly popular during the Bordeaux harvest, when the fruit of several months' work comes to fruition. To take things even further, Les Sources de Caudalie also offers an immersive activity called "In the footsteps of a winegrower", which lets you experience the daily life of a vineyard manager or cellar master. As the seasons go by, after discovering the cellars, participants take part in work in the vineyard to understand the many facets of the winegrower's job. The workshop is followed by a wine tasting.. A unique experience in the heart of the Bordeaux vineyards, where you can work with experts in a friendly atmosphere.
The eco-responsible philosophy of Château Smith Haut Lafitte
Before tasting the estate's exceptional wines, the Château's philosophy on preserving nature and balancing the surrounding biodiversity is also presented. Château Smith Haut Lafitte located in the Pessac-Léognan AOC owes its exceptional quality to the sublime 78-hectare 'Günzian' gravel terroir on which it grows, but it is also worth highlighting the importance attached by its owners, the Cathiard family, to respect for nature and the links constantly created with its ecosystem. The principles of biodynamics and bio-precision have been applied for many years. The grapes are harvested by hand and selected after seven successive optical sortings. Here, cutting-edge technology and traditional know-how go hand in hand to guarantee the finesse of each vintage under precise harvesting, blending and ageing conditions that respect the environment.
Gastronomy and exceptional wines at the heart of the experience
The history of Les Sources de Caudalie, linked to its location and the surrounding vineyards, continues to be written around its two Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant. Lunch or dinner at Terre de Vignes is the promise of a journey to the heart of the Bordeaux terroir, where the quest is for tasteful, essential cuisine that respects the natural surroundings. The estate's wines are showcased in sublime food and wine pairings that give free rein to the creativity of chef Nicolas Masse and his teams. Certain dishes and menus are also inspired by the finesse and depth of the Château's wines.
Les Sources de Caudalie offers a wonderful, all-encompassing experience based around wine excellence, gastronomy and well-being. A unique place where the art of living takes on its full meaning.
