Like a tribute to the nourishing earth, Gaïa, whose name recalls the Greek goddess of fertility and nature, melts subtly into the landscape of the Château Smith Haut Lafitte, between woods and vines. Imagined by Florence Cathiard “as a luxuriant bush” and designed by architect Jeremy Nadeau, this new bioclimatic building embodies an approach firmly focused on the future and respectful of living things, just like the philosophy behind the estate and its 215-acre vineyard, certified as pursuing Organic Agriculture.

From its timber-frame structure to straw bale insulation, but also its hemp ceiling and photovoltaic panels, each choice has been guided by the desire to minimize the building’s carbon footprint. By drawing inspiration from the traditional form of chestnut bark cabins, Gaïa also pays tribute to local know-how and the region’s past.

Connected to the Chai Furtif by a timber walkway, it hosts a reception area, a tasting room and offices, immersing visitors in the spirit of the Château Smith Haut Lafitte. From its scenic terrace surveying the vineyard, one’s gaze embraces the entire property from the majestic château to the noble chartreuse of Captain Smith, not forgetting Les Sources de Caudalie. With Gaïa, Florence and Daniel Cathiard celebrate the past in all graciousness, honouring the present, and sketching out the contours of an increasingly audacious wine-producing future.